49ers notes: Sheets to challenge Clayton

SANTA CLARA — If it’s the exhibition season, it must be time for 49ers running back Thomas Clayton to excel.

Clayton has been one of the summer stars for the 49ers, leading the team in rushing the past two exhibition seasons.

But his success has not translated into anything tangible. Clayton has been waived before the start of the his first two seasons, signed to the practice squad and, finally, promoted to the active roster for two regular-season games in which he did not play.

Said Clayton, “I’m resilient. ‘Frustrated’ is a word for quitters, and I’m prepared to endure anything.”

And, now, he’s prepared for a challenge for his designation as the promising, developmental back on the 49ers. Undrafted rookie Kory Sheets, a speedster from Purdue, and Clayton find themselves fighting for the same role with the club.

In eight exhibition games over the past two summers, Clayton has 87 rushing attempts for 386 yards (4.4 average) and two touchdowns. As a rookie in 2007, Clayton led the NFL with 200 yards rushing in the summer.

Most of his action took place in the second half of games, with one noteworthy exception. Last year, Clayton rushed for 81 yards against the Chicago Bears, including an 11-yard run in which he shrugged off Brian Urlacher’s tackle attempt.

With his dynamic play in the tune-up games, Clayton has established a following. Many of his fans deluge local sportswriters with missives of support for him.

“It definitely makes me feel good that my talent is being recognized,” Clayton said. “More than anything, I’m just trying to find a way to fit in.” Coach Mike Singletary said Clayton can fit in if he does a better job on blitz pickup, as well as hitting the hole decisively — instead of dancing too much.

“All those little things like that,” Singletary said. “He is certainly going to give you everything he has every play.”

With another good exhibition season, there is a strong chance Clayton could end up on an NFL roster this season – even if it’s not with the 49ers. Several teams showed interest in him last season, prompting the 49ers to promote him to the active roster.

Clayton’s name has also come up in trade talks.

HOLDOUT CONTINUES

Rookie receiver Michael Crabtree’s contract impasse enters its 16th day today, matching defensive lineman Larry Roberts (1986) for the third-longest in club history. Crabtree missed his 19th and 20th practices of training camp on Tuesday. The sides remain far apart in contract negotiations, sources say.

EXTRA POINTS

Linebacker Patrick Willis, who has missed more than a week with an ankle strain, is not expected to play in the exhibition opener Friday against the Denver Broncos.

Receiver Isaac Bruce (eye), tight end Delanie Walker (concussion), fullback Moran Norris (personal), guard David Baas (foot), running back Michael Robinson (groin) and cornerback Tarell Brown (toe) did not practice.

For more on the 49ers, go to Instant 49ers at http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers. You can reach Staff Writer Matt Maiocco via email at matt.maiocco@pressdemocrat.com