Where is Arnaz Battle?

And why hasn't he informed coach Mike Nolan of his whereabouts?

What does all this mean?

Word is that Battle remains in Dallas, where he makes his offseason home. Neither agent, Brad Leshnock, nor Battle responded to inquiries Monday. Therefore, we are left to speculate why Battle has decided to remain away from the team - at least for the first day of the "voluntary" organized team activities.

It is surprising Battle has not participated in the offseason program up to this point - other than the mandatory minicamp last month. Battle has a chance to really thrive in Mike Martz's offense this season. However, he can't post big numbers if he does not put in the time to learn all the intricacies of the complex scheme.

Battle is slotted to play the "Z" position or flanker. Isaac Bruce lines up at the same spot. Bruce also did not participate in the offseason program, but he is on hand for the beginning of OTAs. There is one major difference: Bruce already knows the system. Clearly, Battle has more reason to put in the prep work necessarily to get comfortable with the offense.

Battle is a solid player. He is also a hard-worker whom receivers coach Jerry Sullivan has regularly praised for his all-around game, including his skills and commitment as a blocker. Battle has been the 49ers' most reliable wideout the past two seasons.

But - at least for a while - he was bumped to the second unit after the club signed free agents Bruce and Bryant Johnson. Could it be that Battle sees this as a slight?

Nolan said he is not aware of any problems Battle has with the organization. This is a bizarre development that the 49ers do not need when there is considerable pressure this season to show dramatic improvement in the passing game.

Whether it's as a starter or the No. 3 man, Battle was expected to be a big part in the team's offense. At least until some answers are supplied, Battle's future with the club appears murky.

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Posted June 3, 2008 12:15:54 AM

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