More on Kalia Davis, who converted from linebacker to DT in college.
Last week against Philadelphia, 49ers debuted their 2022 sixth round pick, defensive tackle
Kalia Davis. Fans had long awaited to see his first NFL action. Davis' entire rookie season was spent on the non-football injury list as he rehabbed an ACL injury he suffered late in his final season at Central Florida. Coming out of UCF,
Davis drew comparisons to former 49ers and now Broncos defensive tackle D.J. Jones. This increased the intrigue from fans. In his first NFL game against the Eagles' highly touted offensive line, Davis accounted for two pressures, a hurry, and a sack on just 19 snaps. If the 49ers elect to keep Kinlaw's snaps down or aren't moved by Givens' contributions, Kalia Davis is certainly the higher upside option to see increased snaps without Armstead.
Davis was a linebacker in high school. As a senior at West Florida High in Pensacola, Davis recorded 107 tackles, nine sacks and two interceptions.
When he arrived at UCF though, the coaches had a different approach in mind. Transitioning him to the defensive line, Davis was able to carve out a substantial role.
"It's kind of crazy because within the past year I've played (every position) in the whole front seven," Davis said. "Mike, will, sam, both the ends and now I play tackle. It's kind of cool. I like tackle because you're closer to the ball. You make one person miss and you're at the quarterback."
NFL.com scouting report:
One-gapping three-technique with terrific snap quickness that creates early advantages with the potential to become full-scale disruptions. Davis is a former linebacker with above-average bend, foot quickness and athleticism to create mismatches for lumbering guards. He needs more schooling and refinement as both a run defender and pass rusher to become capable of competing against the spectrum of talent he will see on the next level. He hasn’t played much football over the last two seasons, but his explosive flashes could foreshadow a bright upside as a disruptive, upfield talent."