Jed York addresses altered perception of once-mighty 49ers

Recommended Video:

On Wednesday, two days after defensive tackle Justin Smith became the 49ers’ latest big-name offseason loss, Jed York noted his team had actually made a few roster additions in recent months.

The 49ers CEO was asked about the perception of his team after it has lost Smith, Frank Gore, Patrick Willis, Mike Iupati and Chris Borland, among others, on the heels of an 8-8 season. The 49ers have officially morphed from Super Bowl contender to so-so in the eyes of many. Does York like being underestimated?

“It’s not about being underestimated or overestimated,” York said to The Chronicle. “It’s just how do we get better tomorrow than we are today. That’s always been our philosophy. I think we have a great core group of people. You have guys coming back healthy. You might have lost some players, but you pick some players. (Inside linebacker) NaVorro Bowman is now back healthy. He’s ready to roll. He’s one of the best defensive players in the league. (Defensive tackle) Darnell Docket is a great pick-up. (Wide receiver) Torrey Smith is a great pick-up.”

York went on to invoke the recent work of quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who spent the early part of the offseason training in Phoenix with a group that included two-time NFL MVP Kurt Warner.

“Colin’s working to take his game to the next level,” York said. “So I don’t think there’s anyone on our team who isn’t competing and not trying to make themselves the best they can possibly be. And now it’s how we do we come together as a team, which is a question you have every offseason.”

But this offseason is dramatically different. In addition to losing several face-of-the-franchise players - Gore, Willis and Smith earned 17 Pro Bowl berths in 25 seasons with the team -- the 49ers no longer have the face of the franchise: Jim Harbaugh.

York has been heavily criticized for the shift from Harbaugh (44-19-1 record) to ex-defensive line coach Jim Tomsula, and the resulting overhaul of a well-respected coaching staff. And York, of course, will enjoy a bump in popularity if Tomsula and the new-look staff return the 49ers to title contention.

San Francisco 49ers' CEO and owner Jed York comments on the retirement of linebacker Patrick Willis, during a press conference at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on Tues. March 10, 2015. San Francisco 49ers' CEO and owner Jed York comments on the retirement of linebacker Patrick Willis, during a press conference at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on Tues. March 10, 2015. Photo: Michael Macor, The Chronicle Buy photo Photo: Michael Macor, The Chronicle Image 1 of / 4 Caption Close Jed York addresses altered perception of once-mighty 49ers 1 / 4 Back to Gallery

Four months into the Tomsula era, York is optimistic outside perceptions will change, but he acknowledges it will take another four months to have any meaningful data.

“There’s definitely excitement and good vibes in the building,” York said. “Jim is definitely a guy that wants to bring the team together. I see a lot of very positive things, but until you actually play on a Sunday, it’s really hard to assess anything.”

Twitter: @Eric_Branch