The Facts: Jim Tomsula broke a little news on Thursday. The new 49ers coach told reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine that the team has begun talking with both Frank Gore and Crabtree about new contracts.

Diehards Line: Both players are set to become free agents, but GM Trent Baalke said Wednesday that it was a priority for the Niners to re-sign their own talent. Tomsula agreed. "Yeah. I mean that's going on right now," Tomsula said. "I mean, Frank Gore, we talk about all the things that he has -- you mentioned the leadership and the passion and all those things -- but let's not overlook that he is a prolific running back in the National Football League. I'm a big Frank Gore guy. I know those talks are ongoing now, starting this week along with our other free agents." When Around The NFL asked Tomsula if he wanted Crabtree back, the coach said: "Absolutely." There has been considerable speculation that Crabtree wouldn't be back next season. His return still feels like a stretch, but it's possible that Tomsula -- in taking over for Jim Harbaugh -- has altered fate for more than a few free agents, including Crabtree and Gore.