PRESEASON POWER RANKINGS

NO. 17

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

The 49ers nearly swiped a playoff spot last year, in the second season of the Mike Nolan tenure.  But the departure of offensive coordinator Norv Turner complicates things significantly for the offense, and for the development of quarterback Alex Smith.

But No. 17 isn't bad, given the franchise's recent history -- and given a receiving corps that excites no one and a defense that still has work to do to be as good as it can be.

But the pieces are in place for a resurgence, and the playoffs are still a possibility this year.  To get there, though, the Niners need to overcome a tough Seattle team and an improving Rams' franchise.

Key departures:  TE Eric Johnson, C Jeremy Newberry.

Key arrivals:  CB Nate Clements, LB Tully Banta-Cain, DT Aubrayo Franklin, WR Ashley Lelie, S Michael Lewis, WR Darrell Jackson.

Draft pick most likely to make an impact:  LB Patrick Willis.

Coach's current job security:  Three years.