Bryan Gilmore Thinks Ashley Lelie Should Hold His Horses

Poor, poor Ashley Lelie. He just never catches the breaks (or the balls, which may be why he never catches the breaks, but I digress ... ). It seemed, as little as two days ago!, as if he was going to benefit from Taylor Jacobs' release via a promotion to third receiver. And then Bryan Gilmore happened.

Coach Mike Nolan said cutting wide receiver Bryan Gilmore before the season started was the toughest move he has had to make since coming to the 49ers. It figured, then, that Nolan would bring back Gilmore to try to improve an under-performing group of wideouts.

"Bryan gives us some versatility at all the spots," Nolan said. "We need to be more productive."
...
Gilmore said it is his understanding that he's coming back as the team's third wide receiver, behind starters Arnaz Battle and Darrell Jackson.

I hope Lelie is practicing his Daily Affirmations, because I can't imagine what it must feel like to be passed over for Taylor Jacobs, and then have your company hire from outside (someone they already fired, at that) instead of giving you a promotion.

So the tragic tale of Ashley Lelie continues. Not a complete bust in the Charles Rogers mold, Lelie's story is sadder because he once appeared on the verge of NFL stardom. For one reason or another, the fall has been a long one, but the view changes -- and looking up at Gilmore can't be sightly.