Here is the opening of a column I wrote on Michael Crabtree:

SANTA CLARA — The 49ers’ offense is all about wide receiver Michael Crabtree.

It used to be Frank Gore’s offense. Now, with the obvious exception of Colin Kaepernick, it is Crabtree’s offense. The Niners often start the game with a pass to him, establishing him, showing the opponent their primary weapon. And Crabtree responds. He has great hands and is relentless about gaining yards after the catch — a churning yard-making machine.

But not long ago, he had a stigma. It’s hard to remember that now, the stigma. He missed training camps for one reason or another. People called him a “diva.” He seemed soft, maybe a little slow.

To read the full column, click here.