August 26, 2008 First-round pick Kentwan Balmer has shown very little during training camp and is likely to spend most of the year on the inactive list, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Our View:Well, at least the Josh Morgan pick has turned out well.
August 2, 2008 San Francisco first-round pick Kentwan Balmer was running and doing rehabilitation on his sprained ankle today, and he should be back practicing with the team in just a few days, according to the Santa Rosa Press Democrat.
Our View:Balmer has been out since Tuesday when he sprained his ankle. He is expected to play a big role at defensive end in the team's 3-4 alignment.
July 29, 2008 49ers first-round pick Kentwan Balmer injured his ankle and had to leave practice, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Our View:It was not known how serious the injury was, and head coach Mike Nolan said he would find out more later.
July 24, 2008 The Sacramento Bee reports that first-round draft pick Kentwan Balmer has agreed to a five-year-deal with the 49ers.
Our View:Balmer impressed the coaching staff with his work ethic in OTAs. He is currently playing left defensive end in the 49ers' 3-4 scheme.
April 26, 2008 The 49ers made Kentwan Balmer the 29th overall pick in the first round on Saturday. The All-ACC second-teamer moved between end and tackle during his time at North Carolina, but in his senior season settled in at tackle.
Our View:His huge frame and the ability to collapse the pocket made him San Francisco's top pick. His versatility was what interested the 49ers the most, and that is likely how he will be used in the defensive line rotation as a rookie. Balmer gives Mike Nolan's defense an explosive playmaker, something the 49ers lacked in 2007.
