49ers DE Justin Smith retires

[Auggie]

Bad shoulder.

It wasn't simply dominant play, even though there was plenty of that. After all, Smith was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time All-Pro defender. There was arguably no better defender in the NFL for a span of four seasons between 2008 and 2011.

How many defenders in the NFL's history could walk a left tackle all the way back to quarterback then complete the sack by using only one hand? Very few. Smith was one of them ...

IMO, his defining play as a 49er (Divisional playoff game vs. the Saints):

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2468798-justin-smith-retirement-latest-blow-in-49ers-nightmare-offseason

Thanks for the memories.

[KamaAina]

1. It's official. Our team colors are now garnet and gold watches.

Remember back when they used the replacement players? That's what it's gonna look like -- except the other teams will be playing their first-stringers.

[Auggie]

2. Indeed ...

if there are any worthwhile stories to follow they will be:

1) Did Colin Kaepernick improve his pocket presence under the tutelage of Kurt Warner?

2) Can coach Jim Tomusla weather the storm of losing?

3) What rookies/sophomore players will show promise in 2015 and beyond?

4) Can Trent Baalke and Jed York be even bigger assholes?

Meanwhile, I'll be watching the Raiders. They could go out with a bang.