San Francisco 49ers: 10 Pros Who Could Lose Jobs to 2016 NFL Draft Prospects
By Peter Panacy
Linebacker Ahmad Brooks
Similar to fellow outside linebacker Corey Lemonier, Ahmad Brooks might be in danger of seeing his role reduced, or eliminated altogether, in 2016.
Heck, he’s already seen a reduced role after the 49ers drafted outside linebacker Aaron Lynch back in 2014. And Brooks didn’t exactly take that demotion well.
True, Brooks was tied for the team lead in sacks last year with Lynch (6.5). But Pro Football Focus also ranked him as the second-worst defender with a minus-10.5 mark. And at 32 years old, Brooks’ best football days are likely behind him at this point. He’s no longer the same caliber of player that earned him a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2013.
Contractual obligations could also hinder Brooks’ chances. According to the Over the Cap breakdown below, Brooks remains one of the highest-paid players on San Francisco’s roster.
The 49ers don’t exactly have to worry about cap space in 2016 — they own the highest amount of space at the moment — but that doesn’t mean Brooks’ role, or job, is safe should the Niners get younger and cheaper via the draft.
Next: Michael Wilhoite