Niner Noise
FanSided

San Francisco 49ers: 10 Players with a Lot to Prove in 2016

By Peter Panacy

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November 8, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tackle Erik Pears (71) at the line of scrimmage during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Falcons 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
November 8, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tackle Erik Pears (71) at the line of scrimmage during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi’s Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Falcons 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Right Tackle Erik Pears

The 49ers signed right tackle Erik Pears prior to the 2015 season to be a swing tackle and back up incumbent starters Joe Staley and Anthony Davis. But Davis retired, and the subsequent competition opened up a chance for Pears to start in Davis’ stead.

Yet Pears was more than just inconsistent over the course of the season.

Pears graded out with a minus-30.7 overall mark, per Pro Football Focus, and was ranked No. 57 out of 76 qualifying players at his position. He also was credited with 10 sacks and 37 quarterback hurries allowed.

Not exactly the type of stats one would want out of a veteran tackle.

Pears is signed through 2016, and it’s all but guaranteed the Niners will be looking for a long-term upgrade. Pears’ job could be safe — even if it’s not in a starting role — if he earns the right to be a solid backup, who can play at the tackle or guard positions.

He’ll need to prove this as soon as possible though.

Next: WR Bruce Ellington