Each year, we like to run a series of posts called "90-in-90." The idea is that we'll take a look at every player on the roster, from the very bottom to the top and break them down a few ways. This roster will certainly change, and some days we'll have more than one so it's not exactly 90 players in 90 days. At this point, it's a name we're keeping around for street cred.
The decision to lock up Anthony Davis to the tune of $32.7 million through 2019 is proving to be one of the best signings the 49ers have made in recent memory. And they've made their fair share. Davis struggled his first two seasons with penalties and pass protection. Then, in 2012 he put it all together and became one of the top right tackles in the game and the 49ers rewarded him as such.
Davis' physicality and nastiness is a perfect fit for the 49ers mindset on offense. The still only 24 year-old tackle has also been incredibly durable, starting every single game of his young career. Davis admitted on Instagram back in April that he had surgery for a torn labrum and bicep damage. There's been some confusion as to when the injury occurred. Davis first said he tore it week 15 vs. the Bucs then clarified on Twitter that it was week 3 vs. the Colts. Either way, it's remarkable he was able to continue playing and a testament to his toughness.
I have a partially torn labrum myself. It's incredibly painful just reaching for the remote sometimes let alone pulling and pushing around NFL defensive linemen every day.
So far, Davis is on his way to outplaying his contract and he's already one of the highest paid as his position.
Why he could improve in 2014
Davis backed up a breakout 2012 campaign with another solid 2013. And with a bad shoulder nevertheless. Expected to be fully healthy come September, I expect Davis to return to his Pro Bowl form of 2012.
Davis has made tremendous improvements to his pass protection since entering the league but there's still some room for improvement. Most of his struggles seem to come against faster, athletic defensive players. Having made strides each offseason, I'd expect Davis' game to be more refined and consistent. Some believe the 49ers may throw the ball around a bit more this year so Davis may get his chance to prove himself as an elite pass protector early on.
Why he could regress in 2014
While I don't suspect any regression in Davis' game, anytime a player is working his way back from injury there has to be some concern, albeit minor. Davis is already working in the weight room so he appears to be on track barring a setback.
Another area that will always be a concern for Davis is his weight. He's a massive man that once played around 360lbs in college. His playing weight in recent years has been a lean 320-325, or so they say. Davis reported in March this year that he weighed 350lbs. He pointed out his robustness as he posted a video of him dunking a basketball. Pretty impressive.
All-in-all, Davis has already proven to be one of the games top right tackles. I expect that to continue unless the injury holds him back.
Odds of making the roster
100%. Davis, as he has his entire career, will be the starting right tackle for the 49ers for the foreseeable future.
If you don't already follow Davis on Twitter @AnthonyDavis76 or Instagram @BamDavis_, you're really missing out. He's one of the best follows around.