Looks like the San Francisco 49ers are finished expressing their undying love for quarterback Alex Smith as long as the NFL lockout continues.

Eric Branch of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat has the details.

The short version: The 49ers confirmed receipt of an NFL memo asking them to tone down public comments regarding their own players without contracts for 2011.

Coach Jim Harbaugh alluded to the memo during an interview last week. Even Harbaugh would have to admit that his frequent public praise for Smith was a little conspicuous.

We all know Smith plans to sign a contract with the 49ers once the signing period opens. There's no need to dot every "i" with a little heart.

This bromance can wait til training camp.