Mangini: GM Baalke not overstepping his bounds with 49ers

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SANTA CLARA -- Defensive coordinator Eric Mangini quipped Wednesday that he came prepared with some of his best comedy material, but his one-liners did not make the cut after running them past the 49ers’ public-relations director.

Instead, Mangini played it straight when answering questions concerning 49ers general manager Trent Baalke’s level of involvement in the team's coaching. On Wednesday, defensive backs Jimmie Ward and Jaquiski Tartt mentioned Baalke has offered advice on techniques during practices.

“Trent has always been on the field. And he’s always talks to all the guys,” Mangini said. “It’s not like it’s exclusive to Jimmie and (Jaquiski). And most GMs I’ve been around are the same way.

“They’re invested not just from a picking players and putting together a roster, but also watching the development. And it’s a positive thing when you have a consistent message coming from all the different levels.”

Mangini said it is not unique for general managers to be on the field during practices. He witnessed it with then-president Mike Holmgren in Cleveland. Of course, Holmgren was a Super Bowl-winning coach before he moved to the front office. Mangini also cited former Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum as any example of a front-office member who attended practices and spoke to players.

“I haven’t been everywhere, but there are some GMs who might not be as present and maybe that works for their style,” Mangini said. “For these guys it’s a little bit different and Trent has always been on the field at different points.”

[MAIOCCO: Mailbag: The future of 49ers' Kaepernick, Baalke]

Mangini was asked if Baalke or any general manager who instructs players run the risk of meddling with the coaching staff’s message.

“No,” Mangini said. “When you have that title, your bounds are different. ... You have to look at the big picture and look at everything, and if you think there’s something that needs to be said, and you feel like there’s something that can help somebody, you’re going to do it.”

Mangini relayed his own experience as a head coach, moving into different position groups to spread his message.

Baalke’s lone coaching experience came from 1990-95 when he held the position of defensive line/strength and conditioning coach at South Dakota State.

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