It took Michael Crabtree five weeks into the regular season to sign his rookie contract. After months of negotiating, the San Francisco 49ers and Crabtree reached a common deal that keeps him on the team for 6 years and gives him the money he wanted. Now it’s time to see what he can do on the field. Reports out of San Francisco are saying there is a good chance Crabtree will start on Sunday against the Houston Texans.

The 49ers are currently 3-2 and coming off a bye week. The Texans are 3-3. Even though the game is in Houston, teams coming off bye weeks are always at an advantage. The players can rest up and the coaches get 2 weeks of preparation for their next opponent.

Michael Crabtree isn’t the only player giving the 49ers something to be excited about this weekend. Frank Gore, the team’s leading rusher, will be back after missing pretty much 3 games with an ankle injury. With these two stars on the field together for the first time in 2009, you have to think the 49ers are going to be amped for Sunday’s game. I’m not sure what to expect from Crabtree, but if he’s not limited I see 6 catches for 80 yards and a touchdown. The Texans defense isn’t that good against the pass.

What are your predictions for Michael Crabtree in his first NFL game? Do you think he’ll shine? Will the fans embrace him? Post a comment and let me know.