Here is an exchange that took place Wednesday between Jim Harbaugh and reporters courtesy of 49ers public relations:

Getting back to Baldwin, is it realistic he could step up and win that number two receiver spot by the first game given how short his time has been here, to get on equal footing with other guys and emerge by the opener do you think?

“Anything’s possible. What happens there is, some guys with a little bit of a head start now. So, we’re talking about what’s possible. [WR] Kyle Williams, Marlon Moore have a bit of a head start in that regard, but we’ll just take it day-to-day. Excited about Jonathan being out there again in today’s practice. I feel like he’s got a heck of an opportunity here. I feel real excited for both Jonathan Baldwin and A.J. Jenkins. I know a lot of people, kind of, have been making some sport of A.J. and Jonathan and my comments, and that type of thing. I really feel, I feel the same as I did a year ago when I made those comments, that I don’t think it’s fair to bully or label a young player. Though, I fully understand that people are entitled to their opinion and their perspective. However, I prefer that the criticism, I would appreciate if the criticism was directed towards me. I’m responsible and I certainly accept that. Actually, welcome it.”

Jim, you did say that people who said that Jenkins was not a good receiver were clueless. Do you regret saying that?

“Like I just said, of course I’m going to defend a young player when I believe he’s being bullied or labeled, before even his first practice.”

You thought Jenkins was being bullied?

“Yes, and labeled. Yes.”

What you said, that I’m responsible, what are you responsible for?

“Well, I’m responsible. I’m responsible for helping pick the draft picks and fully responsible for coaching the players up. So, I willingly accept those responsibilities.”

Note: I was not at the practice. I’m still getting over the crud — was supposed to cover the A’s game but took a sick day.  So I didn’t hear Harbaugh’s tone and was not there to ask a follow-up question. Got that?

I’m asking you. Was Jenkins treated badly, I guess by the press? In what sense was he bullied? Did that have anything to do with his ability to perform or to please the Niners? It’s nice that Harbaugh is standing up for his former player, but what exactly is his point? And, if you understand his point, is it a valid point?

 

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