Around the NFC West: May 9, 2013
Add a $220.3 million naming-rights deal for the San Francisco 49ers' new stadium to the franchise's growing list of significant achievements in recent seasons.
Since 2010, the 49ers have hired a future executive of the year as their general manager, landed Jim Harbaugh as head coach without sacrificing front-office structure, found a franchise quarterback in the second round, drafted an elite pass-rusher in the first round, won two division titles, reached a Super Bowl and secured a new stadium.
Now, add to the list this naming-rights deal with Levi Strauss & Co. -- one of the NFL's richest in total value, according to San Jose Mercury News reporter Mike Rosenberg.
Fans from other teams in the NFC West have probably heard enough about the 49ers' successes. These are nonetheless significant developments for a franchise that had deteriorated considerably from its peak under former owner Eddie DeBartolo Jr. The sun is shining on Jed York, the 49ers' chief operating officer and most visible figure at the ownership level.