Rumors about the possibility of Marshawn Lynch retiring have been floating around for a few years now, but now it appears that day has finally come. How will the Seahawks possibly replace a guy like Lynch? Well, they already have. Thomas Rawls has shown the ability to enter “Beast Mode” and become virtually unstoppable. When Lynch was sidelined during the season, Rawls stepped in and played as well as–if not better than–Marshawn Lynch. Out of all of these Hall of Fame caliber retirements, the Seahawks will have the easiest transition into the new era.
After their years-long stint as a defensive powerhouse, the 49ers seemed to fall apart like a game of Jenga, with Patrick Willis being the destructive piece. When Willis announced his retirement, the organization crumbled, but recent rumors have speculated about the return of the elite linebacker. Though it would be great for the franchise, the possibility of his return is a longshot. Willis made the decision to retire when he decided his body was more important that the game of football. Coming back from a decision like that is uncommon, and the 49ers shouldn’t hold their breath waiting for the call from Willis.
– Michael Hersey
