Anquan Boldin, acquired by the 49ers this week for a sixth-round draft pick, could be the latest veteran receiver to change teams late in his career and thrive.
He's 32 years old and one of the most formidable wide receivers of his era. It's easy to marvel at his strength, ability to make tough receptions and amazingly strong hands. He was a big reason the Baltimore Ravens defeated the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII.
But how much remains in his tank?
After 10 seasons (seven with Arizona, three with Baltimore), he has far exceeded the average NFL career. But some wide receivers and tight ends have played well – great, even – after their freshness label had long expired:
• Jerry Rice was 39 and had played 16 seasons for the 49ers when he joined the Raiders and had 3,200 yards during the next three seasons.
• Henry Ellard put in 11 fine seasons with the Rams before going to the Redskins, where he had three straight 1,000-plus-yard seasons.
• Tony Gonzales played 12 seasons with the Chiefs, with whom he became perhaps the greatest tight end ever, before going Atlanta. In four seasons beginning in 2009 when he was 33, he caught 326 passes and scored 27 touchdowns for the Falcons.
• Even Randy Moss was a stud after 30, reigniting his career with two big and one monster season in New England.
It's possible age could catch up with Boldin, or maybe injury finally slows him. But on the face of things, his presence on the 49ers looks hugely promising.
What to watch
World Baseball Classic, United States vs. Dominican Republic, 4 p.m., MLB: The Dominicans are 4-0 and are averaging six runs per game.
Today's poll
What's your take on the 49ers' acquisition of receiver Anquan Boldin?
• He adds a big-game threat to the offense.
• At 32, he won't be much of a factor.
Vote above or leave your comments in the comment field; or, go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Tuesday's results
Should the Kings bench DeMarcus Cousins for the rest of the season?
• Yes: 76%
• No: 24%
Total votes: 588
Call The Bee's Brian Blomster, (916) 326-5512. Follow him on Twitter @b_blomster.
© Copyright The Sacramento Bee. All rights reserved.
• Read more articles by Brian Blomster
Order Reprint
About Comments
Reader comments on Sacbee.com are the opinions of the writer, not The Sacramento Bee. If you see an objectionable comment, click the "Report Abuse" link below it. We will delete comments containing inappropriate links, obscenities, hate speech, and personal attacks. Flagrant or repeat violators will be banned. See more about comments here.