Mitchell Blahut
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Articles by Mitchell Blahut
Kyle Shanahan can buck trend of drafting failed RBs with one of these 3 prospects
It's common knowledge that the San Francisco 49ers are blessed to have Christian McCaffrey. The 2022 trade to get him has almost reshaped and reinvigorated the franchise since the move. And once again, CMC shows why head coach Kyle Shanahan and Co. went out and made the acquisition for the former Carolina Panther. Last season, McCaffrey put up 1,202 rushing yards along with running the ball into the end zone 10 times.
Kyle Shanahan's 49ers would love any of these 3 WRs from the NFL Draft
After a tumultuous season, there were plenty of ups and downs for the Kyle Shanahan's San Francisco 49ers. One of the biggest themes for San Francisco was "availability." There were players at all sorts of positions who were either injured or were just unable to play. Or for one particular player, couldn't even be bothered to suit up. And the biggest position group that had difficulty with availability throughout this season was the receivers.
Improvement on special teams has been vital to 49ers' success
It's often said in football circles how special teams is important. As much as someone might say otherwise, it's been proving true for the San Francisco 49ers. Last season, the Niners' special teams success was in a rough place. It's more than just the issues with the kicking woes from Nick Moody. That's only scratching the surface on many of San Francisco's special teams issues from last season.
How Robert Saleh can fluster Browns' Shedeur Sanders in his 2nd NFL start
The San Francisco 49ers are coming off of another strong game by their defense. They held the Carolina Panthers offense to nine points and 230 yards of offense after Bryce Young and Co. went on a tear the previous week. But now, coordinator Robert Saleh and his defense will need to replicate that same success as they head to Cleveland to play rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders and the Browns.
Browns defense will make Brock Purdy pay way more than Panthers did
Brock Purdy had a rough second start after coming back from injury. In the first half against the Carolina Panthers on Monday Night Football, he threw three interceptions. All three of them were more than 20 yards downfield, and Purdy was also 1-of-8 passing for 25 yards on throws 10 or more yards downfield. It wasn't his best start. But luckily for Purdy, the Niners got the win. However, the 49ers are going to need more out of Purdy.
Brandon Aiyuk chatter has 4 teams ready to trade him away from 49ers
There is a lot to unpack with the Brandon Aiyuk-San Francisco 49ers drama. But as for what we know, the Niners have voided his guaranteed money for 2026 earlier this season. It happened during training camp as Aiyuk had not been meeting the requirements of his deal. He has not played yet this season as he was originally recovering from a torn ACL. But it appears he won't be making his return this season. And he most likely will not be suiting up for the 49ers ever again.
1 dream free agent the 49ers would love to sign in 2026
The San Francisco 49ers are looking to improve in the best way possible after this season, and they're especially in need of consistency and healthy players. Plus, the defense is in need of more veteran presence as the group got younger. One of the biggest ways they can do this is by making a splash in free agency.
3 prospects 49ers must be eyeing in Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft
The San Francisco 49ers have had a rough 2025 season, to say the least. Injuries all across the board, including their starting quarterback and two best defenders, San Francisco was on an early trajectory to not only winning the NFC West but even being a serious contender for a deep playoff run. And now, there are a lot of questions regarding if the Niners can compete with some of the NFC's bigger names after a decisive loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 10.
49ers must be kicking themselves for not pulling off Jermaine Johnson trade
It's been one week since a very active NFL trade deadline. And although the San Francisco 49ers were involved in some trade talks, they didn't make a deal. But they were close in landing one of the premiere pass-rushers available leading up to the deadline. Their target was New York Jets edge Jermaine Johnson, according to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz. Sources: The #Bears and #49ers were among the teams that tried to trade for #Jets pass-rusher Jermaine Johnson II.
49ers 7-round mock draft with 2025 NFL trade deadline in the books
The 2025 NFL trade deadline is in the books. And the San Francisco 49ers didn't make a single move on deadline day and will be moving forward with the roster as is. But, it's not as if the team isn't looking forward at ways to improve the roster in the future. Particularly, the way they've consistently looked to keep the team in playoff contention, the NFL Draft.
49ers won't dare trade Mac Jones at deadline
The NFL trade deadline is hours away, and the San Francisco 49ers are definitely in the market to stay in play for a run at the Super Bowl. There's plenty of moves the Niners can consider making; whether it's giving up future draft capital or even one of their key contributors. However, the 49ers won't be willing to trade Mac Jones away at this time. Since Jones took over as the starter in place of the still-injured Brock Purdy, his team has gone 5-2 (6-3 overall).
3 pass-rushers the 49ers can't afford to pass up at NFL trade deadline
The NFL trade deadline is Tuesday, Nov. 4 at 4 p.m. ET, and the San Francisco 49ers can't afford to not make a move. Especially when it comes to the defensive line. Not only is the team's best pass-rusher, Nick Bosa, out for the season with a torn ACL. But now, first-rounder Mykel Williams is also done for the year with the same injury.
49ers can reinvigorate their WR room by trading for one of these 3 players
The San Francisco 49ers are already making moves ahead of the NFL trade deadline to try to stay contenders. Earlier this week, general manager John Lynch made the trade for defensive end Keion White to help with the pass rush after multiple injuries. There has been plenty of buzz surrounding some names and some position groups of need. But, much like the defensive line, the Niners should consider looking at options at wide receiver given the injuries.
49ers have 3 Mac Jones trade scenarios that would fill the Nick Bosa void
The San Francisco 49ers 49ers reached a 3-0 start to the season after the walk-off win against the Arizona Cardinals at home. But now, they have a lot of questions that need to be addressed. We'll focus on the two big ones. First, will the Niners choose to trade backup quarterback Mac Jones with his value as high as it is after two solid starts in place of the injured Brock Purdy? And, what will San Francisco do now that Nick Bosa is done for the year with an ACL tear?
How 49ers rookies are strengthening San Francisco's secondary
The San Francisco 49ers are looking to continue their success in defending the pass. Last season, the Niners ranked third in passing yards allowed and in yards per attempt. They also allowed the second-lowest amount of passing plays that went 20 or more yards. However, there's still plenty of areas to improve for this area of the defense. The 49ers were tied for the ninth-fewest of sacks and were middle of the pack in passer rating, completion percentage, and passing touchdowns allowed.
Is it true any quarterback can succeed in Kyle Shanahan's system?
Since the start of head coach Kyle Shanahan's tenure in San Francisco, several analysts have made the claim any quarterback can succeed in his system. The claim resurfaced after San Francisco's Week 2 win over the New Orleans Saints. Backup quarterback Mac Jones filled in for the starter, Brock Purdy, and put together a solid outing, completing 26 of his 39 passes for 279 yards and three touchdowns.
Rookie Mykel Williams off to hot start with 49ers in first 2 weeks
The San Francisco 49ers are 2-0. And it's not just because of the veteran leaders. A few of the players who were picked in the 2025 NFL Draft back in April are truly paying off for the squad. Especially from the 11th overall pick, defensive end Mykel Williams. Williams has had an impact that doesn't necessarily show in the box score. Although Williams hasn't recorded too many big numbers in the stat sheet, it's worth noting he is the most double-teamed edge rusher in the NFL.
49ers set themselves up for unexpected WR logjam once reinforcements arrive
The San Francisco 49ers have an underlying issue on offense. Aside from the injuries to starting quarterback Brock Purdy and All-Pro tight end George Kittle, the passing game have a big problem on the horizon. The Niners have too many receivers on the roster and only one ball. And, as the old expression goes, "too many cooks spoil the broth." 49ers WRs 1, Jauan Jennings 1, Ricky Pearsall 3, Kendrick Bourne 4, Marquez Valdez-Scantling 5, Skyy Moore Coming soon?
Mac Jones poised to shock 49ers fans if he gets the start (and for good reason)
The injury bug has struck the San Francisco 49ers once again. For the second year in a row, starting quarterback Brock Purdy is poised to miss time. This time, for a toe and left shoulder injury. And now, backup quarterback Mac Jones may step in for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints, provided head coach Kyle Shanahan's comments about it being "a long shot" for Purdy to start ultimately come true. Being the starter isn't anything unfamiliar for the former first-round pick.
George Kittle injury may thrust Jake Tonges into unlikely hero role
On Sunday, All-Pro George Kittle went down with a hamstring injury that had taken him out of the season opener versus the Seattle Seahawks. Before the injury, he was the most reliable receiver target the San Francisco 49ers as he caught all four of his targets for 25 yards and a touchdown. San Francisco was in need of another safety valve it could throw to for quarterback Brock Purdy. Then came third-string tight end Jake Tonges on the final drive.
49ers have officially found their Dre Greenlaw replacement
In the offseason, the San Francisco 49ers had to part ways with one of the team's biggest pieces on the team's defense: all-Pro Fred Warner's running mate at inside linebacker, Dre Greenlaw. It came after Greenlaw's torn Achilles injury in Super Bowl LVIII hampered most of his campaign last year, and he played in only two games before suffering a calf injury that ended his 2025 season.
Christian McCaffrey silenced the doubters with epic performance vs. Seahawks
All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey once again shows once again why he was worth the 2022 midseason trade. He put up 142 total yards offensively — 69 rushing and 73 receiving — on 31 touches against the Seattle Seahawks in the San Francisco 49ers' 17-13 Week 1 victory. Twenty-seven of those yards came during the fourth quarter when the Niners needed them most. And as San Francisco came away with the win, it moved to 24-8 since acquiring McCaffrey in 2022.
49ers reporter says the quiet part out loud about Jake Moody and special teams
Many have criticized the San Francisco 49ers over kicker Jake Moody. It started with the selection of Moody back in 2023 with their third-round pick, the 99th overall pick, to be exact. Since being drafted, many analysts have talked about how he has underperformed. This past Sunday in Week 1's victory over the Seattle Seahawks was no different. He went 1-of-3 on his field goals, including missing a chip shot from 27 yards outon his first attempt.
49ers' Brian Robinson trade is genius for one very obvious reason
The San Francisco 49ers surprised everyone in trading for running back Brian Robinson with the Washington Commanders. Although, given the injury woes that have hit the 49ers, it shouldn't come as a surprise. Especially on the offensive side of the ball. Over the last few weeks, we've talked a lot about the injuries to the wide receivers. But the running back position is no different. Second-year back Isaac Guerendo is back after suffering a shoulder injury early in training camp.
49ers could solve WR woes by trading for one of these 3 players
The San Francisco 49ers are in the market for wide receivers. Brandon Aiyuk's Week 1 availability is still uncertain after his torn ACL and MCL injury from last season. And the rest of the receiver room is being hit with plenty of its own injuries and additional setbacks. Recently, the Niners reportedly missed out on making a trade with the Houston Texas to get John Metchie III, according to Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz: Sources: The #49ers were the other team trying to trade for John Metchie III.
Why Jeff Wilson’s return could rescue the 49ers rushing attack
It's been a rocky offseason for the San Francisco 49ers offense. Not only has San Francisco been decimated by injuries at wide receiver and running back, but the backups haven't been panning out as head coach Kyle Shanahan would hope. Because of this, the 49ers re-enlisted the services of a familiar face, Jeff Wilson, after losing another offseason signing, Ameer Abdullah, to season-ending injured reserve during the opening week of preseason action.
3 teams who desperately want to trade with 49ers for Jauan Jennings
Jauan Jennings is putting the San Francisco 49ers in a familiar spot. For the third offseason in four years, the Niners are dealing with another contract holdout by one of their wide receivers. In 2022, it was Deebo Samuel after one of the greatest statistical seasons by a receiver with more than 1,700 yards (1,405 receiving) and 14 offensive touchdowns (eight rushing). Last offseason, Brandon Aiyuk held out after putting up a career-best 1,345 receiving yards and catching seven touchdowns.
Trent Williams ensured 49ers are left with no questions about his future
The San Francisco 49ers have plenty of questions on the future for the offense. Especially on the offensive line. But 15-year veteran left tackle Trent Williams gave the team a little more optimism. Williams will be turning age 37 next season. And although for some players, especially anyone who's played offensive line, would be considering retirement at this point, Williams says he plans to play a lot longer than 2025.
Marietta College community helps incoming students move in
MARIETTA, Ohio (WTAP) - Friday was the start of incoming freshmen arriving at Marietta College. And with this happening, much of the Marietta College student body is coming to help the incoming students. Everything from hospitality to bringing in furniture and luggage to the resident halls. Officials say this is a great way of being a welcome party for all new students. One new student said he is more than thankful to get this sort of help.
Parkersburg Fire Dept. seeks payment for damages from city
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - After the December ruling in favor of the firefighters being paid incorrectly by Wood County Circuit Judge J.D. Beane, the fire department is looking to receive money for damages. Before the ruling, firefighters were not paid time-and-a-half for holiday pay — or 36 hours.
WVU-Parkersburg to offer new cosmetology school
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - West Virginia University-Parkersburg’s new cosmetology school is almost open. “The area that we’re in is in a great location for the community for them to come get their hair done, their services done. And it brings in practice for our students and customers to work on,” Cosmetology school instructor, John Stanley said. College president, Dr. Torie Jackson said the school was the site of Lee’s Studio on Grand Central Avenue.
Parkersburg man sentenced for two counts of sexual abuse
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Robert Vance is receiving a two-to-10-year sentence for two counts of first-degree sexual abuse. With both counts running consecutively. Vance’s attorney originally motioned for acquittal and a new trial. Wood County Circuit Court judge Robert Waters denied the motion. During the sentencing hearing, Vance’s attorney cited the sexual offender evaluation stated Vance has a one to four percent chance of re-offending. Vance spoke and said he can’t afford to lose his job.
Parkersburg woman sentenced to 1-5 years in prison for animal cruelty
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Kristara Fields of Parkersburg was sentenced to one to five years in prison after pleading guilty to animal cruelty. In early January of 2022, Wood County Humane Society officers responded to a call of “severe animal neglect and cruelty” according to the criminal complaint. In October of 2021, humane officer, Dan Hendrickson said he was called about the dogs and planned to take them away. “The dogs were a little thin.
How to tell the signs of a concussion
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Medical professionals want players to be knowledgeable about concussion safety with fall sports — including football season — in full swing. A concussion is a brain injury usually caused by a direct hit to the head or whiplash. There are many signs in telling if someone has a concussion. Some of the signs include balance issues, double vision and pupil dilation.
Car wreck in front of Vienna Walmart
VIENNA, W.Va. (WTAP) - A crash in front of Walmart near Grand Central Avenue caused airbags to deploy for one of the cars involved. Officials say a red sedan was struck by a black S.U.V. driving into the parking lot. The Vienna police said the red sedan was hit on its side causing damage to the passenger side of the car and caused the front right tire to lose alignment. Officials say no one was hurt. Copyright 2023 WTAP. All rights reserved.
Signing event held for aspiring nurses
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - WVU Medicine at Camden Clark is partnering with West Virginia University at Parkersburg for the “Aspiring Nurses program.” And they are kicking it off with a signing event. Officials say this program is designed to help with the nursing shortage. One way it will help these students is assisting them with outside expenses. For each semester, nursing students will get $5,000.
Donors needed to raise blood supply to sufficient levels
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - The American Red Cross is looking for donors for an upcoming blood drive in Wirt County. The American Red Cross Ohio River Valley district executive director, Sharon Kesselring said blood supply has slightly fallen. Kesselring said this is due to the expected drop in donors because of back-to-school events. She added the American Red Cross needs a three-to-five-day supply and the supply is fluctuating.
Donors needed to raise blood supply to sufficient levels
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - The American Red Cross is looking for donors for an upcoming blood drive in Wirt County. The American Red Cross Ohio River Valley district executive director, Sharon Kesselring said blood supply has slightly fallen. Kesselring said this is due to the expected drop in donors because of back-to-school events. She added the American Red Cross needs a three-to-five-day supply and the supply is fluctuating.
Jaden Sayre continues making strides in his recovery
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Jaden Sayre was hit by a car while he was on his dirt bike in early June. He said the last thing he remembers from the incident was leaving his driveway and then waking up with five doctors and his mother surrounding him. Two months since the wreck, Sayre is continuing his recovery. He said most of his injuries are either on pace to being healed or are ahead of schedule. “For most of my body, yes that’s the case,” Sayre said. “Other than my tibia in my left leg.
Washington County Public Library holds event with Columbus Zoo
BELPRE, Ohio (WTAP) - There were about 160 people at the Belpre Bingo Hall to see animals from the Columbus Zoo. Columbus Zoo animal program specialist, James Gentzel said events like these teach people about respecting animals and protecting their habitats. “So that’s one of the reasons why we do what we do,” Gentzel said. “Our goal is to always increase awareness to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Police: Use caution when sharing back-to-school pictures online
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Many parents will celebrate their child’s first day of school with a back-to-school photo on social media. Wood County Sheriff Rick Woodyard said parents should be cautious. Woodyard said predators could get ahold of information about your child’s age... Location or more from the post. It could even open you up to identity theft. “A few other things you should be conscious of are any information such as school teacher, school, name of your child,” Woodyard said.
New Wood Co. Schools teachers get training before schoolyear
VIENNA, W.Va. (WTAP) - The new schoolyear is always an exciting time for people in Wood County. Including for new teachers in the district. New teachers are getting an orientation at the Grand Pointe Conference Center. The new educators are getting training sessions in many areas to help. “These tools are going to be a big part of our year,” First-year special education teacher, Olivia Dailey said.
How Marietta is prepared for future severe weather
MARIETTA, Ohio (WTAP) - After Monday’s severe weather and more rain expected to come on Wednesday, people are looking at ways of being prepared for when heavy rain comes again. Marietta city engineer, Robert Heady said Monday went over a 25-year storm. A storm of this magnitude requires at least 4.15 inches of rain over 24 hours. Heady said Marietta didn’t experience the same amount of storm damage compared to Parkersburg and Belpre.
WVU-Parkersburg offering second-year program focusing on substance abuse issue
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - WVU-Parkersburg is providing the peer recovery support specialist program. The community college’s workforce and economics division program coordinator, Martha Leeson said this gives students the chance to learn the path to recovery on a personal level. “They work on a journal together. And they share confidential information together. And they get very close in this program. We have a graduation and everything for them once they’re done.
Sunset Funeral Home holds Purple Heart Day ceremony
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - August 7th is Purple Heart Day. This day honors those who received a purple heart award – which is given to those who were wounded or killed during service. Vietnam War veteran, Jerry Smith said it is an honor to remember those who have this award for their sacrifice. Smith added people should honor these veterans not only today, but for every day. “We have to remember them every day.
Community impact from severe weather in Parkersburg
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Roads on Division Street, Camden Avenue and Avery Street in South Parkersburg flooded due to the storm. Residents on Camden Avenue said cars stalled while trying to cross the water. Businesses like Grogg’s Home Services closed because of the flooding. Grogg’s owner, Tim Hanlon says a couple of vehicles belonging to employees got water in them. However, all company vehicles were able to be moved to higher ground before they were flooded.
Jon Six Food Ministries searching for new church
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Jon Six Food Ministries is searching for a new church to hold its weekly food service. The group’s founder, Jon Six said the group is moving in another direction from its previous location at Christ United Methodist Church. The organization’s vice president, Victoria West said she is hopeful something will come soon. And she believes everything will work out for Jon moving forward.
Nature scavenger hunt held at McDonough Wildlife Refuge
VIENNA, W.Va. (WTAP) - The McDonough Wildlife Refuge was the site for a scavenger hunt for kids in the area. The scavenger hunt was hosted by Westbrook Health Services and the Wood County Prevention Coalition. Officials with the event said they want to give kids a chance to do more activities that will provide better mental health. Westbrook substance use case manager, Skylar Bogan said the event will also give kids a chance to see what support is out there in the area as well.
From in the system to helping people in it
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - Natalia Marshall is the House to Home assistant director. An organization providing help to homeless people here in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Before helping the homeless, she was in the same position years ago and battling addiction. Marshall said she was able to pick herself up and get back on her feet starting at Recovery Point in Charleston. Marshall then came to Parkersburg and got help from St. Joseph’s Recovery Center.
New churches meal plan initiative to help with food insecurity
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) - United Way Alliance of the Mid-Ohio Valley executive director, Stacy Decicco met with community churches in Parkersburg. During the meeting, ways of making it easier to get food for those who are most in need was discussed. Decicco said, “And the conversations just grew about, ‘How could we streamline?
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