NFC West Update
Anthony Davis of the 49ers becomes the fourth player on the team to retire from the NFL this offseason. Only 25 years old, Davis battled multiple injuries last season including knee, hamstring, and concussion issues. He now joins former Niners Justin Smith, Patrick Willis, and Chris Borland in a string of 49er retirements in recent months. Davis tweeted that he plans to take a year or two to allow his brain and body to heal and recoup. The 49ers will maintain Davis’ rights and his contract will be “tolled” during his time away. Davis is signed through the 2019 season but if Davis returns next season he will then be signed through the 2020 season. Davis, a first round draft pick in 2010, has been a mainstay on the right side of an effective power rushing attack over the last 5 seasons. This is a big blow to a 49ers team who also lost starting LG Mike Iupati in free agency to divisional rival, Arizona Cardinals. Seventh-round pick Trent Brown, Erik Pears, and Alex Boone will compete in training camp and the preseason for the starting right tackle position.
