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Smelter: 'I'll be ready whenever they need me'

SANTA CLARA – General manager Trent Baalke believed the 49ers got a bargain with the fourth-round selection of wide receiver DeAndre Smelter.

Smelter, who sustained a torn ACL in his left knee to end his college career nearly a year ago, was available in the fourth round. The 49ers selected him, not knowing if Smelter would be able to play during his rookie season. The 49ers typically select injured players one round later than where they would have taken him if he were healthy.

On Monday, Smelter was cleared to practice for the first time as a member of the 49ers.