CBS SportsLine
Chat Transcript
August 21, 1997

San Francisco 49ers president Carmen Policy stopped by to chat with CBS SportsLine fans on August 21, 1997.

Find out what Carmen had to say in the full transcript of his chat below.

Chat Host: Hello San Francisco fans! Please welcome Carmen Policy, president of the San Francicso 49ers! Mr. Policy, thanks for joining us today.

Carmen Policy: Hello. I'm happy to be here on SportsLine and I'm ready to hear from all the 49ers' fans today!

Question: How is Coach Mariucci adapting to his new job?

Carmen Policy: We are delighted with Steve's performance both on the field and in the classroom. He's brought a sense of electricity to the team and the organization and that's very much appreciated by the veterans. He's also re-emphasized aspects of our offense that we've drifted away from these past few years. I believe that the players who have been here and understand the historical perspective understand how important that energy is.

Question: What is Jerry Rice's attitude about having to adapt to a new coach?

Carmen Policy: Jerry Rice has told me at least three times that he feels re-born and re-charged. He's very pumped up and excited.

Question: As a current season ticket holder, what can I expect as far as seating once the new stadium is up?

Carmen Policy: Thanks to the fact that we will have the most fan-friendly stadium in all professional sports, we feel that we will offer our present season ticket holders at least as good of seats that they currently have now. The design along with the amenities will upgrade everyone's viewability. We will work on the software as soon as the seating bowls are finalized to strategically place our season ticket holders as close in proximity to the field.

Question: What is your relationship with the players? Do you get to spend time with any of them? Do you get the opportunity to get to know any of them?

Carmen Policy: Fortunately, I get to interact with a great number of our players, in fact, there are some that I have become good friends with. Once the season is over, people have a tendency to take time off, especially those players who don't particularly live in the area. I get to see them and work with them in programs, social arrangements, business arrangements, etc.

Question: Have you imagined what the 49ers will be like after Jerry Rice?

Carmen Policy: I would rather have the Angel of Mercy come and take me away than have to live without Jerry Rice. It's just so hard for me to imagine... Trying to go through the season with out him would be like mornings without coffee.

Question: Is it true that the 49ers are going to retire Joe Montana's jersey?

Carmen Policy: We're working on whether we do it this year and probably looking at the end of the year on Monday Night Football which would be on Dec. 15.

Question: Doesn't a 6-year contract for Steve Young seem a little long?

Carmen Policy: Our contracts are not similar to basketball, baseball, or hockey. Our years are not guaranteed... So, although the contract is for 6 years, it's really a year to year contract. But, by having a contract for 6 years, it establishes your right to the player.

Question: How is Garrison Hearst coming along?

Carmen Policy: I think Garrison Hearst will really be productive when he has the opportunity to work on a consistent basis. He's the type of player that needs to develop a rhythm. We are blessed by having such an excellent tandem of running backs such as Garrison Hearst (and Terry Kirby).

Question: What is the status of Druckenmiller? And, how do you feel about him as a person and player?

Carmen Policy: Druckenmiller has won over the hearts and interest of the Bay Area fans. He's a lot of fun to have around. He's very dedicated to working out and improving. There's nothing he likes better than to work out with the veterans. He's become a favorite among players on the team.

Question: How are the other draft picks coming along?

Carmen Policy: Marc Edwards is from Notre Dame and he has just been an outstanding addition to the team. Greg Clark from Stanford has turned out to be an amazing player. He's versatile … something a lot of teams desire. We envision that Greg Clark will be a Pro Bowl tight end with within two years.

Question: How do you feel about the 49ers' chances of reaching the Super Bowl?

Carmen Policy: I will say, that if we are healthy and lady luck is at our doorstep, we have an excellent chance at meeting anyone in San Diego including New England, Denver, Oakland (although I loathe the thought of that).

Chat Host: From Jesster: "Mr. Policy, A 'Bay Bowl' would be great!"

Question: What's the latest on Sapolu? Any progress?

Carmen Policy: We're in the process of talking to his agent (Sapolu) now and trying to reach a contractual agreement that fits both interests. He may be able to come in for a workout which may determine if he is signed.

Carmen Policy: If we are fortunate to be in the Super Bowl, we will not be picky in terms of who our opponent would be. We'd even look forward to meeting the Raiders.

Carmen Policy: The attitude that exists on the 49ers team of 1997, is very reminiscent of the state of mind that prevailed here in 1994 when we went to the Super Bowl and won. I really believe that the chemistry that's developed between the players and amongst the players themselves is extremely healthy and cause for great optimism. I really have a strong feeling that we're going to see great things from the 49ers in 1997.

Chat Host: Mr. Policy, thank you so much for joining us on CBS SportsLine today. You were a great guest and we had a terrific audience. Best of luck to the 49ers! I'll leave you with some comments from your fans...

Chat Host: From G-gate: "Mr. Policy, welcome. You're doing a great job! I'm sure your 'good friend' Al Davis would be happy to see you in the Super Bowl."

Chat Host: From Jesster: "Mr. Policy, I just want to thank you as a long-time time 49er fan and thanks for taking the time to join us today."