The speculation surrounding San Francisco 49ers tackle Joe Staley potentially calling it a career seemingly came out of nowhere. The veteran has given every indication that he wants to finish out his contract, which runs through the 2021 season. His disappointment from losing a second Super Bowl in his otherwise spectacular career has, for some reason, caused many to question his future.
"I don't think you know with certainty with any player, but all indications, Joe is really happy being a Niner," general manager John Lynch said in February. "He's healthy, and that's all good, and I think he performed at a really high level. We love having Joe around, and hopefully, we can keep doing this song and dance for years to come."
Staley contemplated retirement in 2017 when injuries plagued him. Would the offensive lineman have retired had the 49ers won Super Bowl LIV? With nothing left to prove, it is possible. Recoveries from a fractured fibula and fractured finger forced him to miss several games this past season. There's no doubt the year took its toll.
Mark Willard of KNBR on Friday asked tackle Daniel Brunskill about Staley. He said the offensive linemen spent time together earlier this year, before the coronavirus pandemic forced people to stay apart. Still, Brunskill offered no insight into Staley's intentions.
"I know he's a competitor," said Brunskill. "I would love to have him back out there and see what he does. Yeah, I couldn't give you whatever scoop everybody wants to know. I mean, he's under contract and stuff, so we'll see what he wants to do, but he's a great player. We definitely could use him."
If Staley does decide to end his NFL career, Brunskill says he and tackle Justin Skule are prepared to step up, if needed.
"If not, we'd love to have Joe there, just because of the leader he is, and then he's a beast of a player," Brunskill added. "He can go against anybody and do great. However it works out, we're ready, and we're going to do what we have to do to win."
You can listen to the entire conversation with Brunskill below.