San Francisco linebacker Jeff Ulbrich and running back Paul Smith agreed to contract extensions with the 49ers yesterday, establishing a recent trend for a team that's trying to keep its talented young players together as long as possible. 49ers sign Ulbrich
to 4-year extension
Star-Bulletin wire services
Ulbrich, a Hawaii alumnus and a third-year pro in his second season as a starter, signed a four-year, $5.1 million extension that keeps him with the team until 2006. He made 92 tackles last season, and he has come back strong this fall from a knee injury during training camp.
"I was really glad to sign," Ulbrich said. "It seems like we're finally getting to the position where we can retain the guys we've got. We're keeping virtually everyone."
Ulbrich was in the final season of the three-year, $1.21 million contract he signed as a third-round draft pick in 2000 from UH. He has 30 tackles and an interception in seven games this season, including six starts.
Smith, a valuable special-teams player and a backup running back, agreed to a two-year extension. After struggling with injuries in training camp, Smith's role has gradually increased. The third-year pro played a valuable role as a blocking back in San Francisco's win over the Chiefs on Sunday.
"We're trying to extend more of our young players, and we believe these are two young guys that can be here for a long time," 49ers general manager Terry Donahue said.
National Football League
