Washington has a second-round tender from the Jets, so the Niners would need to surrender their second-round pick if the Jets didn't match. Washington is a good change-of-pace RB who's also a good receiver and a dynamic return man. He has experience in the wildcat formation, which might allow Smith to work from the shotgun more often. He broke his fibula and missed about half the 2009 season.

Regardless of whether any of these deals happen, it's nice to see the Niners front office trying to get something done.

Just curious, here...could the Niners do something like the following? Trade pick #17 to the Saints for their first- and second-round picks at the end of each round. Sign Gaither and give the Ravens the Saints' first-round pick. Sign Washington and give the Jets the Saints' second-round pick. The Niners would fill two of their biggest needs and still have a first- and a second-round pick. Obviously, the teams would be more inclined to match, but if there is a "poison pill" provision in the contract, they might find that difficult. Is there any rule against doing this?

Another possibility is to wait until after the draft and offer their first- and second-round picks next season. This would make the 2011 draft rather boring for Niner fans, but would indicate that the Niners think they can compete next season.

• Niners, Leon Washington have spoken

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