Sinclair was a victim of Dennis Erickson's incompetence. Even in Niners and Raiders country, we heard plenty about him in the three year stretch that he was a serious threat off the edge. He was overshadowed by Bruce Smith and Derrick Thomas though. Sinclair would be mentioned in the same sentence though during those few years. If Erickson could actually outcoach anyone, Sinclair would have had a chance to make some noise in the playoffs where DEs really make the name for themselves.
As far as TE, one thing is that we have never used TE's as featured receivers, no matter who was the coach. If Stephens had not been a drunk, he more than likely would have been a perennial pro bowler.