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2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Vernon Davis

By Erik Lambert

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Oct 19, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) during the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Two years ago it was unthinkable that the San Francisco 49ers would ever let Vernon Davis become available.  Has that changed ahead of 2016 NFL free agency?

  • Age:  31
  • 26 catches
  • 245 yards
  • 2 touchdowns
  • Two Pro Bowls

Suffice to say the 2014 season was a forgottable one for Davis.  After claiming his second career Pro Bowl and helping the 49ers back to the NFC Championship game, he regressed in a big way from his 52 catches for 850 yards and 13 touchdowns.  It’s not like he missed a ton of time either.  He played 14 games.

Thus the question becomes how much of it was coaching, how much was fewer opportunities and how much was his own poor play?  Given the Jim Harbaugh fiasco last year, it’s fair to think that had an effect, as did being targeted 34 fewer times by quarterback Colin Kaepernick.  On the other hand, according to Pro Football Focus, Davis was terrible last season, both as a receiver and run blocker.  He drew ratings of -11.3 and -9.2 in those respective categories.  A year earlier they were +5.2 and +7.1.  So perhaps it was his poor play that drew fewer opportunities.

This has led to questions coming back about his commitment to the game, something echoed by departed teammate Frank Gore.

Thus it comes back around to reality.  Davis will be a free agent in 2016.  His sheer physical talent and history suggest he should still be able to play but will another down season change that perception?  Then there is also the presence of Vance McDonald, the 2013 second round pick who could be ready to push for more playing time.

Bring all of it together and San Francisco has an interesting decision ahead of them.

Likeliest Outcome:  Hits open market

Next: NFL Divisional Rundown: Jet And Dolphins Eye The King

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