Manning makes no sense for 49ers with Smith, Kaepernick around

The 49ers plan to improve their quarterback position for next season. And they don't believe they have to make any big acquisitions for that to happen.Coach Jim Harbaugh reaffirmed on Monday he wants quarterback Alex Smith back on the team next season. League sources have told CSNBayArea.com they expect the 49ers and Smith to eventually agree on a two- or three-year contract worth 8 million to 11 million a year.Because of the lockout, Harbaugh and his staff did not work with Smith or rookie Colin Kaepernick during the offseason.
Smith turned in his best NFL season with career-bests in completion percentage (61.4), yards passing (3,150), touchdown-interception margin (17 to 5) and passer rating (90.7). Of course, he also started every game as the 49ers won the NFC West with a 13-3 record.RELATED: Alex Smith 2011 game logs
With the opportunity to remain in the same offense -- regardless of whether offensive coordinator Greg Roman is back -- both Smith and Kaepernick should have a better grasp of the system for the 2012 season.That's why it is unrealistic for the 49ers to invest greatly in another quarterback. They'll pay Smith like a starter, and he'll be only 28 years old next season. And they traded up in the second round a year ago to pick Kaepernick. They're leaving the door open for Kaepernick for the future, too.Peyton Manning's future is uncertain with the Indianapolis Colts, who are expected to select quarterback Andrew Luck with the No. 1 overall pick. But don't look for Manning, who turns 36 in March and missed this season with a neck injury, to have any chance of ending up with the 49ers.