Is Rice close to donning silver and black?

By Alan Keffer

There are some things in the world that are never going to change. However, Jerry Rice wearing a San Francisco 49ers uniform is one of those things that do. As unbelievable as it seems, the days continue to get closer to the time when the receiving record holder will no longer dawn the red and gold.

NFL sources say the Oakland Raiders are the front runners vying for the future Hall of Famer's services. When pressed on the subject, Rice's agent Jim Steiner said, "There's no denying their (the Raiders') interest."

Rice has visited the Raiders as well as the Seattle Seahawks and the Detroit Lions. Rice worked out in Oakland last week and team sources say they like what they saw. However, Steiner says it's too early to make any final conclusions. "Jerry's being very careful not to make any announcement until after June 1," Steiner said. "There's no deal (with Oakland). Detroit is still a very attractive situation."

Some rumors have the Lions offering car dealerships in an attempt to lure Rice to Detroit. However, Lions general manager Matt Millen disputes that report.

Rice also visited Seattle for the second time last week. Sources close to the wide receiver states he would however like to play in Oakland. The primary reasons are that it features a grass surface and he could also keep his team in the home that they currently own. Rice is a 16-year veteran, who has played his entire career with the 49ers. His 2000 season included 75 catches for 805 yards and 7 touchdowns. He currently holds the NFL career record for catches (1,281), receiving yards (19,247), and receiving touchdowns (176). He also holds the NFL's career record for total touchdowns with 186.

Sources state that a deal between Rice and the Raiders could be done by as early as June 6.One thing is for sure, Rice, who has three Super Bowl rings, would like to play for a championship contender. All three of the teams seeking him feel the wide receiver could be the missing piece to their winning a championship ring.

Article courtesy of Fanstop.com