49ers — finally — sign WR Crabtree

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Michael Crabtree is confident he can play a big role for the San Francisco 49ers as a rookie even though he’s months behind.

He will get his chances in an offense that could really use him.

Crabtree signed a six-year contract early Wednesday after a drawn-out negotiation process that had some wondering whether the wide receiver would ever show up this season.

“It’s a lot of relief off my shoulders,” Crabtree said when formally introduced at team headquarters.

While specific terms of the deal, which was completed around 2 a.m. Wednesday, were not disclosed, Crabtree will receive nearly $17 million in guaranteed money, according to a person familiar with the contract.

Crabtree headed out Wednesday for his first practice as the 49ers prepare for Sunday’s home game against Atlanta.

“Everybody came to a reachable agreement and it happened,” Crabtree said, sporting a red No. 15 practice jersey and charcoal gray sweats. “I’m just glad I’m past that part.”

Coach Mike Singletary called it a “fair deal for both parties involved.”

The former Texas Tech standout was the only draft pick who hadn’t signed — and even rapper MC Hammer got involved to finally make it happen.

Crabtree could provide the game-breaking receiving threat the 49ers have been lacking, assuming he can quickly learn the offense after missing all of training camp. The 10th pick overall, he also sat out offseason minicamps and organized team activities while recovering from a foot injury, but was a regular presence at the team’s training facility.

Before Wednesday, Singletary had spoken to Crabtree just once since breaking offseason workouts in June.

Crabtree and his agent, Eugene Parker, met with three top 49ers officials Tuesday to work through his contract impasse. Crabtree balked at a long-standing offer of approximately five years and $20 million, with a reported $16 million guaranteed. Instead, he sought money comparable to what higher draft picks received.

“We came out of the gate and put a solid offer on the table,” 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan said