Demoted 49ers LB takes off in a huff

Thursday, Sept. 29, 2005 | 9:04 a.m.

SUN WIRE SERVICES

Linebacker Jamie Winborn cleaned out his locker and left the San Francisco 49ers on Wednesday as the club abruptly announced plans to trade the former starter.

A few hours later, the 49ers' defense got even more surprising news when defensive back Mike Rumph was ruled out for the season with a torn muscle in his foot. Rumph was hurt during practice Wednesday at Santa Clara, Calif., and he'll go on injured reserve today.

When the 49ers face the Arizona Cardinals in Mexico City on Sunday, three training camp starters won't be available on defense: Cornerback Ahmed Plummer, scheduled to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle today, also won't play.

Winborn lost his job to converted defensive end Andre Carter last week, and coach Mike Nolan suggested the fifth-year pro should stay away to avoid injury while the 49ers find him a new home.

"He sees himself as a starter, and I would tend to agree with that," Nolan said. "It just won't be here."

Winborn's departure is the biggest move yet in a promised shakeup by Nolan, who hasn't been pleased with the 49ers (1-2) after consecutive losses.

Haggans had a sack, two forced fumbles and 12 tackles in the 23-20 loss to the Patriots. He is tied for the team lead with three sacks this season.

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