Knights in the NFL: Anthony Davis to step away from football

In a shocking development in the NFL today, former Rutgers star and 49ers starting right tackle Anthony Davis has announced he his taking a hiatus from the game of football.

Davis is only 25 years old and seemed to be the anchor of the 49ers offensive line for years to come. Davis became the highest draft pick in Rutgers history when the 49ers selected him with the 11th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Here is his statement, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter:

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. Im simply doing what's best for my body as well as my mental health at this time in my life. Sincerely, Anthony Davis

Davis is also the fourth big name 49er o step away from the NFL this offseason.

49ers retirements this off-season: LB Patrick Willis LB Chris Borland DE Justin Smith OT Anthony Davis

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 5, 2015

Via his twitter account, Davis made it clear that he will be back in a year or two.

I'll be back in a year or so.. I'll be 26 or 27 years old. Im taking this time to allow my Brain and Body time to heal and recoup.

— Anthony Davis (@BamDavis_) June 5, 2015