49ers' Anthony Davis announces retirement; intends to return in 'a year or so'

San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Anthony Davis abruptly announced his retirement Friday.

Davis became the fourth 49ers player to retire this offseason, joining Patrick Willis, Chris Borland and Justin Smith. Both Borland and Davis' decision to leave the game were unexpected with both players entering or in the prime of their respective careers.

The 25-year-old Davis was selected with the 11th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Davis released a full statement via NFL.com's Chris Wesseling.

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. 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 ok.

I hope you too have the courage to live your life how you planned it when day dreaming to yourself growing up. 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.

Sincerely,
Anthony Davis

"Anthony’s been working on himself right now," 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula said Friday. "He has every right to do that. We wish him the best."

The 49ers right tackle never missed a game in each of his first four seasons, but was held out of nine games in 2014 with a sprained MCL, hamstring injury and concussion. Davis was an integral part of the 49ers' three consecutive NFC Championship Game appearances from 2011-13.

"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," 49ers general manager Trent Baalke said via the team's official website.

In his absence, Erik Pears and Chris Martin will contend for the 49ers' right tackle vacancy.