San Francisco 49ers: 10 Pros Who Could Lose Jobs to 2016 NFL Draft Prospects
By Peter Panacy
Right Tackle Anthony Davis (retired)
OK, so right tackle Anthony Davis is still retired. And while he’s made continuous overtures of his return to the NFL in 2016, the fact remains he’s not back with the 49ers until, well, it’s official.
San Francisco owns Davis’ rights regardless of his status. So, if Davis does return, his contract picks up where it left off.
But that doesn’t automatically guarantee he’ll assume his starting job again.
For what it’s worth, a report surfaced from Peter King of the MMQB hinting the Niners were tying to trade Davis. Davis later tweeted a response claiming general manager Trent Baalke denied any such rumor.
"Trent text me this morning clarifying a "report that surfaced" saying that the trade accusations are "False Reporting"."
Take from that what you wish, but it’s more than likely Davis will have to fix some bridges between himself and the front office after his abrupt retirement prior to the 2015 season.
Even if everything winds up being OK, from a business perspective, Davis could easily have competition at right tackle. Trent Brown is a promising second-year player, who could assume the starter role. And it’s worth wondering if the 49ers decide to make further upgrades to the offensive line via the draft.
San Francisco likely won’t get its hands on top-prospect tackle Laremy Tunsil. But Notre Dame’s Ronnie Stanley may be right there at No. 7.
And Stanley is the type of prospect who could be plugged in right away his rookie season. Davis isn’t going to suddenly take over left tackle Joe Staley’s spot, right?
Who knows though. Maybe the 49ers move Davis inside to guard.
Next: Andrew Tiller