San Francisco 49er Anthony Davis Retires: Joined by Patrick Willis, Chris Borland, Justin Smith

On Friday, Anthony Davis announced his retirement from the NFL and San Francisco 49ers. This is a tough blow for the 49ers, as this is the fourth member of the team this off-season to retire. Davis, 25, is joined by Patrick Willis, 30; Chris Borland, 24; and defensive lineman Justin Smith, who is 35-years-old.

In a press release, Davis said he needed the time away from the game. According to him, he needs to recover both physically and mentally.

"After a few years of thought, I've decided it will be best for me to take a year or so away from the NFL," Davis said. "This will be a time for me to allow my brain and body a chance to heal. I know many won't understand my decision; that's okay. Your life is your dream and you have the power to control that dream. I'm simply doing what's best for my body as well as my mental health at this time in my life."

In 2010, Davis was the No. 11 overall pick out of Rutgers. Davis started his first 64 games but he was slowed down by shoulder, hamstring, knee and ankle injuries. On top of that he was limited by a concussion last season.

With Davis out, Jonathan Martin will become the starting right tackle for the 49ers. The team's general manager, Trent Baalke, released a statement on Davis' retirement:

"The 49ers organization thanks Anthony for his contributions to our team over the last five seasons and wishes him the best as he moves on from the game," Baalke said in a statement.

Coach Jim Tomsula also released a statement:

"Anthony's been working on himself right now. That's what he's been doing," Tomsula said. "Look, Anthony wants to step away, and he wants to get his mind and his body right, and that's where he wants to go and he has every right to do that."