It may become clearer, this lag in the Niners and Alex Smith concluding a new contract. It is being reported that Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman flew to Duke on Tuesday, the first day of free agency, to work out Peyton Manning. Apparently, things went so well, they have sent doctors to check out Manning. It seems the Niners are interested in Manning — or appear to be. If they want Manning, Smith could be history in San Francisco.

I seldom engage in self justification. But a week ago, I wrote a column saying the Niners would be delinquent in their duty not to go after Manning if they are serious about winning a Super Bowl. Lots of readers said I was nuts to suggest Mannning. Apparently, the Niners don’t think it’s so nuts. To read my old column, click here.