Veteran wide receiver insists media is ‘grabbing at whatever’ in the off-season.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Anquan Boldin has signed a new two-year contract with the franchise, and also moved to dismiss reports of a players rift with coach Jim Harbaugh.
The Niners have not disclosed the financial details of the deal, although a source has told ESPN that Boldin agreed to a $12m deal that includes $9m in guaranteed money.
The 33-year-old played an integral role for the team last season after they acquired him from the Baltimore Ravens in return for a sixth-round pick.
The three-time Pro Bowler had 85 catches for 1,179 yards and seven touchdowns as he helped the offensive unit deal with the absence of the injured Michael Crabtree for the majority of the regular season.
The veteran receiver was instrumental in the opening 11 games and is expected to play a vital role for the team moving forward as he is known to be widely respected by his teammates and coaches.
“We are pleased that Anquan has chosen to continue his career as a 49er,” general manager Trent Baalke said in a statement released by the team. “He is a consummate professional whose love and respect for the game provide a tremendous example for all players.
“Anquan has been a very productive player throughout his career, and we look forward to his future contributions to our team and community.”
Meanwhile, Boldin insisted that there was no “rift” between the players and coach Jim Harbaugh, despite recent reports to the contrary.
The organisation have already rejected a move from the Cleveland Browns this off-season, but Harbaugh has been forced to dismiss reports that he has issues with the front office and some of the players.
Boldin backed up his coach’s words, and believes that due to the lack of football and discussion points, the media are being a little farfetched with their reports.
“Honestly, I just heard about it yesterday,” Boldin said, as reported by ESPN.
“I really don’t watch SportsCenter. I don’t read sports news. At this time of the year, people grab at whatever. The football season is not here so they’ll take whatever they can and run with it. A lot of it is farfetched.”
Boldin went on to admit that he laughed when he first heard the report and revealed that the 49ers have an open door policy which allows them to air any issues, something none of the players have done.
The former Ravens star insisted that he has a great relationship with the coach, and having led the 49ers to three consecutive NFC Championship games, they will all be striving toward reaching the Super Bowl.
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