In a move that was not a surprise based on his role on the team, the Niners on Tuesday said “so long” to linebacker Derek Smith.  The role that Smith played in the past had been taken over by Patrick Willis, so the move to release him makes sense.  Smith, an 11-year pro, had signed [...]

 
How much of a cut is he willing to take? That’s the big question for the 49′ers when it comes to linebacker Derek Smith. The SF Chronicle is reporting that Smith’s agent and the 49′ers have begun talks to keep him in San Fran, but that Smith due to make $3.3 mil this next season, [...]

Two 49′er Tidbits from Pro Football Weekly 
• Veteran Niners ILB Derek Smith says the eye injury that limited him last season no longer is an issue, but team sources continue to have their doubts. We hear that in the preseason opener, the same recognition problems that hindered Smith last year popped up more than a few times. [...]