One of the (only) concessions NFL players won during last year's collective bargaining negotiations was a delayed start to the offseason workout program. In past years, that program would have begun in mid March. This year, the voluntary program begins today for the 49ers.
But don't expect to see a big change in the number of players who show up to lift weights and run sprints at 4949 Centennial Drive. The 49ers have had very good attendance for the past few months, something that coach Jim Harbaugh commented about last month. (The link also has a list of the regular attendees at 49ers headquarters). When long-time veteran and defensive MVP candidate Justin Smith arrives regularly, other players tend to follow.
One player who will join the mix is linebacker Larry Grant, who is expected to sign his restricted free-agent tender this week. Grant played very well when he filled in for injured Patrick Willis last year, but inside linebackers have not received much attention in free agency while restricted free agents have received even less. Grant tweeted this morning that he planned to see teammates at the 49ers' facility today. Grant has until Friday to sign the tender.
Safety Dashon Goldson, however, is not expected to participate. The 49ers made Goldson their franchise player back in February but he has not signed the tender while the two sides presumably work on a long-term deal. Goldson has until June to sign the franchise tender.
-- Matt Barrows
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