49ers vs. Chargers: 4 players who are fighting for final roster spots

LB David Mayo

Former Carolina Panthers inside linebacker David Mayo doesn’t have the largest shoes to fill, as the special-team standout was brought in to replace outgoing linebacker Brock Coyle, who retired the same day Mayo was signed. Coyle graded out as one of the NFL’s worst linebackers in 2017 and ranked dead last among linebackers in his one start in 2018, per PFF.

However, Mayo hasn’t fared much better than Coyle during the 2019 preseason. Unlike Coyle, Mayo’s problem isn’t missing tackles, although he certainly had his share of tackling issues during his time in Carolina. Over the preseason, when Mayo has gotten his hands on a ball carrier, he’s usually made the tackle — unfortunately, he’s often out of position and unable to make the play.

Mayo has also been a liability in coverage, which is problematic in a defensive scheme that relies heavily on its linebacking corps. Mayo has little chance of making the final roster exclusively as a special-teamer, particularly with outside linebacker Mark Nzeocha‘s strong preseason.

Given what fellow Mike linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has shown over the team’s first three preseason games, the 49ers are likely to go with the raw, high-upside rookie over the high-effort,  career-backup veteran. This is particularly true at a backup position that could easily be filled by inside linebacker Kwon Alexander if needed.

Mayo is a dedicated player who gets the most out of his athletic ability, and his motor never stops. But unless the special-teams ace can demonstrate value as a defender on Thursday night, the 49ers may be forced to turn the page on the vet in order to mold their younger talent.

The San Francisco 49ers’ final game of the 2019 NFL preseason kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, at 10 pm ET.