From The Associated Press

SANTA CLARA — The San Francisco 49ers traded leading receiver Brandon Lloyd to Washington on Saturday for the Redskins’ third-round pick this year and their fourth-round selection in 2007.

Lloyd was a restricted free agent for the 49ers, who drafted him in the third round three years ago. He was San Francisco’s top receiver last season, catching 48 passes for 733 yards and five touchdowns for the NFL’s worst offense, but alienated teammates and clashed with Mike Nolan’s new coaching staff.

Though Nolan repeatedly spoke with Lloyd about the receiver’s attitude during a tumultuous season, the coach denied any personality conflicts, even saying he would miss Lloyd. Nolan claimed the trade wasn’t requested by Lloyd, who improved markedly during his one season under receivers coach Jerry Sullivan.

“He’s got some of the best hands you’ll see, and he does make plays,” Nolan said. “We did this to make our team better. ... If he didn’t (want to return to San Francisco), he never voiced it to me.”

San Francisco signed Lloyd to an offer sheet earlier in the month, but Washington seems more enamored with his highlight-reel skills than the 49ers were. Lloyd was scheduled to visit the Redskins’ training complex Sunday.

A call to Lloyd’s cell phone wasn’t immediately returned.

Though Lloyd made countless eye-popping catches during his three years with San Francisco, he also made a series of memorable drops and mistakes while feuding with the media at times. Lloyd also drew criticism from hard-nosed teammates such as Fred Beasley and Kevan Barlow for his flashy jewelry and his aspirations to become a rapper in his spare time.

Niners re-sign

hometown kicker Nedney

Joe Nedney fulfilled a childhood dream simply by joining the San Francisco 49ers last season. He realized a grown-up dream Saturday, re-signing with the club for four more years.