Jack,

I have to agree with you about Wilson; it's probably unfair to drag him into a read-option debate.

As to Alan Branch, Michigan happens to be one of only two or three college teams I usually wind up watching play for a game or two each season - a very good friend is an alum - and I remember Branch from his days there. He's the kind of "value" FA that could make a nice addition to the 49ers. He's the right age, he's stayed fairly healthy and he has excellent speed and agility for a man of his size. There would also be a "spice" factor in signing him away from Seattle. Yes, a good depth option.