Smith has stated that he would accept a pay cut to return to the 49ers. The 49ers want him to return and believe it will happen, as long as they can work out an acceptable contract with Smith's agent, Tom Condon.

Shaun Hill has a 7-3 record as a starter the past two seasons, but coach Mike Singletary has not anointed Hill the starter next season. He said he does not want to commit to Hill because he is not sure if the club will add a candidate for the starting job in the offseason.

--The 49ers will be represented for the second consecutive year during the Super Bowl coin toss ceremony before Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa on Feb. 1.

The Super Bowl coin toss ceremony will include greats from Super Bowls 10, 20 and 30 years ago. Roger Craig will represent the 49ers. Craig earned three Super Bowl rings in his career. He is the first player to score three touchdowns in a Super Bowl.

The others who will participate in the ceremony are the Steelers' Lynn Swann and the Broncos' John Elway. A star from 40 years ago, Joe Namath, will participate in the Vince Lombardi Trophy presentation following the game.

Last year, the memory of Bill Walsh was honored during the coin-toss ceremony. Walsh's son, Craig, was joined by Ronnie Lott, Jerry Rice and Steve Young at midfield.

--In getting rid of offensive coordinator Mike Martz, coach Mike Singletary made it clear it had nothing to do with anything other than the strategic questions of what he wants to do with the offense.

Singletary wants an offensive coordinator who is better grounded in the run game.

"I'm not looking at a younger guy," Singletary said. "It has nothing to do with age. It's only philosophy."

QUOTE TO NOTE: "The right person for the 49ers is out there" - 49ers coach Mike Singletary on his quest to find an offensive coordinator.