National Football League

Boone insists he will be ready for Sunday opener

Published Sep. 2, 2014 6:48 p.m. ET

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SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) Alex Boone would hold out again if necessary - and has no regrets about missing the offseason program with the San Francisco 49ers - if it means more financial stability for his family.

Sure, the right guard missed his teammates, but Boone insists he will be up to speed in no time - a fresh $6 million, two-year contract in hand to help motivate him.

He agreed to terms on a restructured contract during the weekend, then passed his physical Monday. The new deal allows him to become a free agent after the 2015 season and not be designated with the franchise tag.

Boone already met with coach Jim Harbaugh and said he was prepared to practice Tuesday and be ready for Sunday's season opener at Dallas if called upon to start.

''It's great to be back, good to be back with the team,'' Boone said. ''I'm happy with the outcome. It's a win-win for everybody. It's time to start playing football. ... I'm happy to join my teammates. The feeling was very mutual. We can put all this behind us and we can move forward.''

Boone said he largely spent the offseason relaxing at home with his two young children, including 5-month-old daughter Karmyn. He worked out six days a week in Chandler, Arizona.

If he is in shape and ready, Boone's menacing 6-foot-8 presence will be welcomed. It already was a positive addition for teammates to see him Tuesday as the 49ers dressed in their new locker room at Levi's Stadium amid the distractions of Ray McDonald's legal situation and linebacker Aldon Smith's nine-game suspension handed down from the NFL on Friday.

''Kilgore, what's up, buddy?'' Boone hollered at center Daniel Kilgore, who was right next to him.

The offensive line struggled during the preseason to protect quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Not that Boone noticed much.

''I didn't really watch them that much. It was weird to watch them so I just kind of avoided it,'' Boone said. ''Found myself working out during that time. Watched some clips, thought they were good. Could always get better, there's always progress to be made. I think for this team the sky's the limit. I'm excited for this year. I think everybody is. And it's time to get back to work.

He has started every game the past two seasons with a tight-knit unit that is one of the most-improved in the NFL. New starting center Kilgore joins the mix this season.

Boone said he hasn't hit anybody since the NFC championship game loss at Seattle. How much he might play Sunday, Boone doesn't know.

''That's up to the coaches,'' he said. ''Personally, I think I'll be very effective.''

Boone's fines for missing the mandatory minicamp and training camp were waived as part of the restructured contract.

''It's awesome that he's here,'' left guard Mike Iupati said. ''I'm sure he worked hard in the offseason. Oh yeah, no doubt, Boonie will be ready. Everybody will be ready.''

Notes: San Francisco brought back WR Kassim Osgood on a one-year contract. DL Glenn Dorsey was placed on the injured reserve/designated for return list. He cannot practice until at least six weeks have passed or be activated until after eight weeks. ... Iupati welcomed his second son, Taimanu Anthony, on Monday.

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