49ers bring optimism to training camp

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) -Patrick Willis reported for training camp Saturday morning with a gleam in his eye and a glow reflecting from his hairless scalp.

Starting nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin didn't report at all.

The starting nose tackle in San Francisco's 3-4 defensive scheme is seeking a new contract and did not participate in any of the team's offseason workouts.

The 49ers designated him their franchise player earlier this year. He has yet to sign a one-year tender offer of $7.003 million and may opt to miss the camp grind well into August.

His absence didn't damper the optimism surrounding camp, though. Willis event shaved his head as part of the new look for a team many expect to contend in the NFC West.