You Heard It Here First – February 1st

As I look into my crystal ball, I see the future of the NFL. Here’s three things to watch out for:

1. Michael Crabtree will NOT be on the San Francisco 49ers after the trade deadline

Ever since being picked tenth in the 2009 NFL Draft, Michael Crabtree has been nothing but a headache for the 49ers. He held out for a 49er record 70 days, before finally receiving a contract worth $8 million more than he was originally offered. So far it’s been all sizzle and no steak as Crabtree has failed to perform and he had injury problems in 2011 due to a broken foot sustained in the offseason.

Should this happen, it would likely be through a trade. Crabtree’s contract is relatively affordable as most of his money was in the front end. In 2012 he’ll cost only $3.5 million and 2013 only $4.5 million and, while his contract does have him earning a further $3.5 million in 2014, this amount will likely be voided as Crabtree has not met certain conditions. Expect him to cost anyone who trades for him a third round pick or possibly a fourth if the pick is high enough.

2. Janoris Jenkins will not be a first round pick

At this week’s Senior Bowl, Jenkins performed well in workouts but was beaten several times during the game itself. Jenkins has had several off-field incidents including being arrested and charged in 2009 for fighting and resisting arrest — he had to be tasered during this arrest — and two arrests within three months for misdemeanor marijuana possession in 2011, which resulted in being forced to leave the Florida Gators. Jenkins may be talented but all these issues will result in him not being picked in the first round and places some doubt on whether he is even picked in the second round.

3. The Pittsburgh Steelers will NOT make the playoffs next season

Seem like a stretch? Since 2001 the Steelers have missed the Playoffs only three times but the last time this happened wasn’t so long ago – 2009. Now they’re getting older, the defense is starting to show a few holes and Big Ben is losing the mobility he is so famous for due to the injuries he gets year in and year out. I think the 2012 season will be the season when the luck runs out.

That’s it for this week folks. As usual, you can leave your comments or hit me up on Twitter @Gizzy_DJ and remember – you heard it here first.

To stay up to date on the latest from NFL Spin Zone, become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.