One of the worst draft classes in 49ers history is the one for 2022.
Brock Purdy was selected with their last pick, and it was one of the best decisions made by the team ever. But observe the remainder of the class: Drake Jackson, who will be absent all year. The player Ty Davis-Price is no longer with the team. Danny Gray, with one career catch to his name. Spencer Burford, who was benched the previous season. Samuel Womack, who in his career has logged 216 defensive snaps. Nick Zakelj, who has only made twelve offensive snaps in total. Tariq Castro-Fields was cut from the squad. And Kalia Davis is another.
In the sixth round, Davis was taken by the 49ers. If he had been well, he would have left much sooner. However, he was hurt when they took him. However, for his first campaign, the 49ers virtually had to redshirt him. He has therefore only played 54 defensive snaps in two seasons.
However, Davis was perhaps the 49ers’ best defensive lineman during their 17–13 preseason loss to the Titans on Saturday, when he played 30 defensive snaps. In addition to recording a sack and a tackle for loss, he also botched one more backfield play. He was consistently being penetrated when trying to stop the pass and run.
Davis appears to be a player on the rise and someone who could benefit the 49ers this season. A strong, strong defensive tackle like Davis might help them address their recent problems stopping the run. Kevin Givens and he are vying for a spot on the second-string defensive line.