Michael Crabtree to Sit Out 2009 NFL Season?

Reports indicate that Michael Crabtree, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver, is prepared to sit out this seas and re-enter the draft in 2010. Comments were made by his cousin and advisor, David Wells.

"We are prepared to do it," Wells said. "Michael just wants fair-market value. They took him with the 10th pick and you have Darrius Heyward-Bey [the seventh overall pick by the Oakland Raiders] getting $38 million? This week is crucial. Michael was one of the best players in the draft and he just wants to be paid like one of the best players. This week is very crucial."

Michael Crabtree’s agent is distancing himself and his client from Wells’ comments.

Addressing the report, agent Eugene Parker told ESPN.com on Thursday afternoon: "You’ve known me a long time and I’m not a guy who makes threats. Nor am I a guy who negotiates in the public. I don’t know where this came from but no such threat has been made."

Wells told ESPN the 49ers’ current position on signing Crabtree is “unacceptable.”

“Michael is one of the best players in the draft,” Wells told the network, “and he just wants to be paid like one of the best players.”

Crabtree, who turns 22 next month, also missed the 49ers’ offseason minicamps and their organized team activities while recovering from a foot injury but was a regular presence at team headquarters for rehabilitation and strengthening workouts.

Crabtree caught 97 passes for 1,165 yards and 19 touchdowns last year during his sophomore season at Texas Tech. He finished his collegiate career with 231 receptions, 3,127 yards and 41 TDs.