49ers' Smith has ‘more to prove than ever'

Share

June 9, 201149ERS PAGE49ERS VIDEOMatt Maiocco
CSNBayArea.com

SAN JOSE -- Alex Smith said his mind was made up before the lockout lifted, and he went to the 49ers' offices April 29 to meet with coach Jim Harbaugh.

He left that day with a playbook and other material he used this week to begin installation of the 49ers' offense.

Smith, the No. 1 overall pick of the 2005 draft, remains unsigned. But there is no use pretending he is keeping his options open.

"I think this speaks for itself," said Smith on Thursday, referring to the four-day school he organized this week at San Jose State for his offensive teammates.

RELATED: Rookie Aldon Smith arrives at 'Camp Alex'

So why would he want to return to the 49ers after six frustrating seasons?

"I got more to prove than ever," Smith said. "For myself, for my teammates, for everyone, I just think I know I can play this game at a high level. And I haven't done it consistently, yet. I'm determined to do so."

And why would he put in the time and effort to organize a camp for his teammates during the lockout?

"We're behind the 8-ball," he said. "Any team that's had turnover and new systems going in is at a clear disadvantage the longer this goes. The real motivation was to play catchup as much as we can."

Twenty-one offensive players were on the field at Spartan Stadium on Thursday. Receiver Michael Crabtree took part in all the classwork during the weel, but he did not practice the final three days. Smith said Crabtree was doing the right thing to prevent a serious foot injury.

Smith said any speculation of a rift involving him and Crabtree has been overblown.

"As far as our chemistry off the field, how we get along, I think that's totally off base," Smith said. "He and I have gotten along since Day 1."

On the field, Smith said he and Crabtree agree they are not satisfied by the results.

"Unhappy would be an understatement for our play last year," Smith said.

Contact Us