SANTA CLARA -- When the 49ers implemented their defensive system last year, two players from outside the organization were held up as models for how their respective positions in the secondary should be played.
The 49ers signed one of those players in the offseason when the Seattle Seahawks released veteran cornerback Richard Sherman.
And if the 49ers need anyone to present a recruiting pitch to the other individual, free safety Earl Thomas, the club does not have to look too far for a volunteer. Sherman said he believes the 49ers will be interested, but there should be plenty of competition, too.