Receiver Arnaz Battle said today he missed 49ers organized team activities this week "for personal reasons." He plans to attend the voluntary workouts next week, he indicated.

Battle's unexplained absence raised some eyebrows this week at the team's OTAs in Santa Clara. Coach Mike Nolan said Monday he expected Battle to attend the workouts and did not know his whereabouts. Battle remained in Dallas, where he makes his offseason home.

In an email exchange this morning, Battle wrote that he "will be back for next week . . . also have informed coaches." The 49ers are off today, but are scheduled to work out Thursday and Friday. The team will continue its routine of practices on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays through June 20.

Battle, the 49ers most reliable wide receiver the past two seasons, is fighting for playing time. He is the No. 2 flanker behind veteran Isaac Bruce, but could see considerable action this season as the No. 3 wideout in Mike Martz's offense.

Last season, the Lions had three wide receivers catch more than 60 passes under Martz's direction. Battle led the 49ers' wide receivers with 50 catches for 600 yards and five touchdowns.

Posted June 4, 2008 11:32:48 AM

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