Vernon Davis expects to be among the NFL's elite (1 Viewer)

[azcards33]

AIMING HIGH

Davis expects to be among NFL's elite

Bryan Chu, Chronicle Staff Writer

Thursday, August 7, 2008

(08-06) 21:59 PDT -- Vernon Davis considers himself an artist.

The muscular 49ers tight end has gone from drawing Donald Duck and Winnie the Pooh on his mom's walls as a tyke to selling an acrylic canvas of Bill Walsh during a player's auction at last year's Super Bowl.

"It's a passion," said Davis, who majored in art studio at Maryland. "I do it every chance I can get. I like to do realistic paintings, like self-portraits."

Now Davis is trying to bring his football career into sharp focus as he enters his third season.

Tight ends coach Pete Hoener and Davis set goals early. This year, the plan is to get the 24-year-old Davis more involved in the offense.

"We expect big things from him," Hoener said. "He caught a lot of passes in our offense last year and we weren't doing well, but he was definitely a bright spot."

Davis, who ranked ninth in receptions (52) at his position last season, had no qualms comparing himself to the best tight ends in the NFL. "I'm going to be No. 1," he said. "That's my goal, nothing less. With this offense, I believe I can do it."

Comparing himself to Tony Gonzalez, Jason Witten and other top NFL tight ends, Davis won't back off.

"They're OK," Davis said. "They're all right. I believe I'm up there too at their level, maybe even better. I'm saying I'm going to have a great season. An awesome one."

Under the system of new offensive coordinator Mike Martz, coach Mike Nolan expects a big season from his tight end.

"I believe with the offense and everything that goes with it, I expect him to get better," Nolan said. "Some guys come (into the NFL) closer to their potential than others; Vernon is not one of those guys. He's going to get better and better, because he has so much ability."

In his first season, Davis played in 10 games and had 20 receptions for 265 yards and three touchdowns. His second season he upped that to 52 catches, 509 yards and four touchdowns in 14 games.

This season, Davis has his eyes set on a loftier goal: the Pro Bowl.

"That's included in a great season," he added. "That means getting 1,000 yards and over 70 catches."

At times last season, Davis looked like a bystander. In six of the 14 games he played, Davis had three or fewer receptions.

"Was it upsetting? Yeah. Very upsetting," said Davis, who declined to offer his thoughts on 2007 offensive coordinator Jim Hostler. "I was trying to figure out if I'm here to be a blocker or what. I thought I was here to make plays as far as catching the ball.

"That's how you get to the Pro Bowl and all those other things by catching the ball, I never heard of a tight end going to the Pro Bowl by blocking. It's about making catches."

This season, Davis is pleased with Martz for a simple reason.

"My role is going to increase big time," Davis said. "Way more touches. This is a new beginning. This is a breakout season."

On Davis' right forearm is a self-designed tattoo - replete with flames and a red rose - with a phrase written in Hebrew which translates to "my heart has found what my soul has been looking for."

And for artist Davis, that means getting his hands on the ball more.

O'Sullivan!

J.T. gets to start at quarterback for the 49ers in the first preseason game Friday against the Raiders. D3

 

[tribecalledjeff]

What is that little symbol at the end of the text in the subtitle?

 

[moderated]

This guy is going to put up silly numbers this season. Unless all the coaches are lying to him it's pretty clear he's going to get some major targets.

 

[AnonymousBob]

I'm so confident in him this season I traded away Gates...

 

[massraider]

A young player is shooting for the top? That ain't news.

The real news would be if he came out and said, "You know, I think I'll finish around top 4 or 5. Right around there...."

 

[-baller]

"That's how you get to the Pro Bowl and all those other things by catching the ball, I never heard of a tight end going to the Pro Bowl by blocking. It's about making catches."

what a jackass.

 

[gregjcross]

A young player is shooting for the top? That ain't news.The real news would be if he came out and said, "You know, I think I'll finish around top 4 or 5. Right around there...."

I liked him on my team at the end of last year. Productive. I would trust him. At the beginning of hte year, Alex Smith could not stay upright; no wonder they couldnt get him the ball. Good upside, as usual, on VD. IMHO: better than Algae Crumpler or Owen Daniels, probably tied with Shockey.

 

[UnknownCoach]

With many of the best TEs in the NFL hurting right now its wide open this year. I have doubts about how Martz will use Davis but its no secret he has the talent to be in the top 5. Still, this is nothing more than a showing of self confidence.

 

[Captain Spaulding]

As long as he doesn't get suspended for steriods (which I think is only a matter of time), he and Winslow should become the top 2 stud TEs in the NFL within the next couple of years.

 

[Mr. Peterson]

"That's how you get to the Pro Bowl and all those other things by catching the ball, I never heard of a tight end going to the Pro Bowl by blocking. It's about making catches."

what a jackass.

He's not lying...

 

[Tanner9919]

not a chance this guy finishes in the TE top 7 , let alone #1 TE overall..

lets see, Alex Smith/Hill/O'Sullivan + Martz + shaky line + offense that doesn't feature the TE = Johnny Mitchell, v2.0....

 

[5Rings]

not a chance this guy finishes in the TE top 7 , let alone #1 TE overall..lets see, Alex Smith/Hill/O'Sullivan + Martz + shaky line + offense that doesn't feature the TE = Johnny Mitchell, v2.0....

I'll take that bet. VD =

 

[UnknownCoach]

As long as he doesn't get suspended for steriods (which I think is only a matter of time), he and Winslow should become the top 2 stud TEs in the NFL within the next couple of years.

Winslow will never be healthy. If he had been, he'd have been a top 3 TE as a rookie and first on the fantasy board the following year. Unfortunately, we'll never see that Winslow. We'll see a guy who has to sit out a lot of practices every year and will end up with a shortened career. On a per game basis, he's still been and will continue to be a stud but dont count on a full season of it. Davis is amazingly athletic but he's not in the same fantasy zone as a Winslow or Gates. He can be a top 5 TE just on his athleticism but dont expect 80 receptions out of him. Being big and fast isnt the same as haveing hand/eye coordination, reflexes, and instincts.

 

[TheWick]

As long as he doesn't get suspended for steriods (which I think is only a matter of time), he and Winslow should become the top 2 stud TEs in the NFL within the next couple of years.

Winslow will never be healthy. If he had been, he'd have been a top 3 TE as a rookie and first on the fantasy board the following year. Unfortunately, we'll never see that Winslow. We'll see a guy who has to sit out a lot of practices every year and will end up with a shortened career. On a per game basis, he's still been and will continue to be a stud but dont count on a full season of it. Davis is amazingly athletic but he's not in the same fantasy zone as a Winslow or Gates. He can be a top 5 TE just on his athleticism but dont expect 80 receptions out of him. Being big and fast isnt the same as haveing hand/eye coordination, reflexes, and instincts.

2006 CLE 16 119 89 875 9.8 3 2007 CLE 16 148 82 1106 13.5 5 yeah your right he'll never consistently play 16 games

 

[AnonymousBob]

What's he done in the preseason to back up that big mouth of his?

 

[Dexter Manley]

What's he done in the preseason to back up that big mouth of his?

I watched the 49ers last preseason game. Off the top of my head, he had 3 targets I think, and a couple catches. All in the first 2 drives, IIRC. In his defense, JT Osullivan provided some of the worst qb play I've seen this preseason when VD was in the game. QB play could definitely be an issue.

 

[-X-]

Maybe his owners (myself included) will actually get some consistent point production from him this season, because he's been a huge bust thus far.

 

[Restricted]

Please stop bumping old threads.

Oh, wait, this isn't from 06 or 07?

Sorry.

 

[jdoggydogg]

I have doubts about how Martz will use Davis

If Martz had a lot of WR talent, I would agree with this. But even with the upgraded receiver corps, Davis is still one of the top talents on that team. I would be very surprised if Martz didn't get the ball to Davis a lot.Martz TEs have never done well? When's the last time Martz had a TE like Davis?

 

[Raider Nation]

What is that little symbol at the end of the text in the subtitle?

Code for BOATLOADS

 

[raven1911]

We all know Martz likes to throw the ball and on a team where he basically has no standout WR's this year like C.Johnson and R.Williams last year, I think VD gets implemented into the offense and acts like more like a WR this year. I have him on my team, have a good b/u TE in Z. Miller just in case, but expect some increasing numbers and consistency from VD. I am hoping for a top 5 finish.

 

[CrossEyed]

Hasn't Davis said this every year?

 

[a_troll00]

people have been making big projections for him every season. Wake me up when he actually does something.

 

[Sheriff66]

Not with his QB situation he won't...

 

[Moe Green]

Hasn't Davis said this every year?

BUT THIS YEAR HE MEANS IT!

 

[CrossEyed]

Hasn't Davis said this every year?

BUT THIS YEAR HE MEANS IT!

Ohhhhhhh, well then I guess I had better pay attention this time.

 

[Banger]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

 

[jdoggydogg]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna? He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

 

[Banger]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna? He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

 

[AnonymousBob]

I'm starting him this weekend over Crumpler. Actually, I'm so confident in Vernon this season I traded away Gates. I think he should be good for at least one long bomb against Arizona.

 

[Gr00vus]

Watching how they used him this preseason it looks to me like he'll get plenty of opportunities and targets. It appears he'll be option 1 or 2 in the redzone as well.

 

[jdoggydogg]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna? He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

 

[Banger]

Watching how they used him this preseason it looks to me like he'll get plenty of opportunities and targets. It appears he'll be option 1 or 2 in the redzone as well.

I agree. He was the 8th most targeted TE last year and if he increases by just one target/game he'll be in the top 5. I don't think that's unreasonable on a Martz offense. Over the last 3 seasons (2 with Det/1 St. Louis) Martz offenses threw 596, 587 and 599 times. SF threw the ball 513 times last year and they obviously brought in Martz for a reason. So if they increase the targets by say 70 or so this year I think it's reasonable that Davis would receive a number of them. Additionally, from what I've read he'll be targetted in a different manner. It sounds as if they line him up wide, send him down the field more so his Y/R has a chance to increase as well.

 

[Banger]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

I've definitely read that but last week Nate Jackson was "starting" in front of Scheffler too. I've read everything I can get my hands on while researching him and the opportunity this summer and my jist is...-Martz is very excited to have and his talent

-They have gameplanned to exploit his talent by lining him up in different positions (as a wr at times)

-He's noticed some flaws in his game and they've worked on them (slows down as he catch's the ball, etc.)

-Davis has worked very hard and feels that he's going to be a huge part of the offense (usually guys know what their role in the offense will be based on the # of plays drawn up for them).

-Davis is actually a good blocker but Martz doesn't run the ball so that won't be an issue

here's a few quotes..."Well, 52 (catches) is pretty good production. That's really good for the tight end position. What we'll try to do with him is try to take advantage of his speed more, probably, than what they've done in the past. We'll try to get him down the field, more or less like a wide receiver -- move him out, move him around. At first it was so different for him, but he's really adapted well to it. He's really kind of thrived with it."

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace." Davis has been studying old Rams footage of receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt to learn how to polish his routes. "Instead of breaking down and head-faking and doing all these things, we're going to use his speed," Martz said. "And I think he understands that really well at this point." (notice his 40 yard grab in his last preseason game Link @1:07 ).

 

[moderated]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

I've definitely read that but last week Nate Jackson was "starting" in front of Scheffler too. I've read everything I can get my hands on while researching him and the opportunity this summer and my jist is...-Martz is very excited to have and his talent

-They have gameplanned to exploit his talent by lining him up in different positions (as a wr at times)

-He's noticed some flaws in his game and they've worked on them (slows down as he catch's the ball, etc.)

-Davis has worked very hard and feels that he's going to be a huge part of the offense (usually guys know what their role in the offense will be based on the # of plays drawn up for them).

-Davis is actually a good blocker but Martz doesn't run the ball so that won't be an issue

here's a few quotes..."Well, 52 (catches) is pretty good production. That's really good for the tight end position. What we'll try to do with him is try to take advantage of his speed more, probably, than what they've done in the past. We'll try to get him down the field, more or less like a wide receiver -- move him out, move him around. At first it was so different for him, but he's really adapted well to it. He's really kind of thrived with it."

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace." Davis has been studying old Rams footage of receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt to learn how to polish his routes. "Instead of breaking down and head-faking and doing all these things, we're going to use his speed," Martz said. "And I think he understands that really well at this point." (notice his 40 yard grab in his last preseason game Link @1:07 ).

I really think Martz is giddy to have an electric player like Davis and loves having a weapon like him in the arsenal.

Davis could have a huge year if he stays healthy.

 

[Gr00vus]

Watching how they used him this preseason it looks to me like he'll get plenty of opportunities and targets. It appears he'll be option 1 or 2 in the redzone as well.

I agree. He was the 8th most targeted TE last year and if he increases by just one target/game he'll be in the top 5. I don't think that's unreasonable on a Martz offense. Over the last 3 seasons (2 with Det/1 St. Louis) Martz offenses threw 596, 587 and 599 times. SF threw the ball 513 times last year and they obviously brought in Martz for a reason. So if they increase the targets by say 70 or so this year I think it's reasonable that Davis would receive a number of them. Additionally, from what I've read he'll be targetted in a different manner. It sounds as if they line him up wide, send him down the field more so his Y/R has a chance to increase as well.

Yeah, that's what I've seen in preseason - he's all over the formation, all over the field - though I will say I didn't see too many flys/straight sideline patterns, he always seemed to end up on or between the numbers when the ball came his way.The guy is a mismatch like Gates - nobody on the field can cover him man up. With the crazy Martz offense there's lots of space cleared out for him in zones too.

If he can't have a good year this year, he can't have a good year period.

I've been buying in - he's my lead TE in the subscriber contest and my big money league for instance.

 

[Banger]

Watching how they used him this preseason it looks to me like he'll get plenty of opportunities and targets. It appears he'll be option 1 or 2 in the redzone as well.

I agree. He was the 8th most targeted TE last year and if he increases by just one target/game he'll be in the top 5. I don't think that's unreasonable on a Martz offense. Over the last 3 seasons (2 with Det/1 St. Louis) Martz offenses threw 596, 587 and 599 times. SF threw the ball 513 times last year and they obviously brought in Martz for a reason. So if they increase the targets by say 70 or so this year I think it's reasonable that Davis would receive a number of them. Additionally, from what I've read he'll be targetted in a different manner. It sounds as if they line him up wide, send him down the field more so his Y/R has a chance to increase as well.

Yeah, that's what I've seen in preseason - he's all over the formation, all over the field - though I will say I didn't see too many flys/straight sideline patterns, he always seemed to end up on or between the numbers when the ball came his way.The guy is a mismatch like Gates - nobody on the field can cover him man up. With the crazy Martz offense there's lots of space cleared out for him in zones too.

If he can't have a good year this year, he can't have a good year period.

I've been buying in - he's my lead TE in the subscriber contest and my big money league for instance.

I grabbed him in my money league as well and am pretty optimistic.

 

[jdoggydogg]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

I've definitely read that but last week Nate Jackson was "starting" in front of Scheffler too. I've read everything I can get my hands on while researching him and the opportunity this summer and my jist is...-Martz is very excited to have and his talent

-They have gameplanned to exploit his talent by lining him up in different positions (as a wr at times)

-He's noticed some flaws in his game and they've worked on them (slows down as he catch's the ball, etc.)

-Davis has worked very hard and feels that he's going to be a huge part of the offense (usually guys know what their role in the offense will be based on the # of plays drawn up for them).

-Davis is actually a good blocker but Martz doesn't run the ball so that won't be an issue

here's a few quotes..."Well, 52 (catches) is pretty good production. That's really good for the tight end position. What we'll try to do with him is try to take advantage of his speed more, probably, than what they've done in the past. We'll try to get him down the field, more or less like a wide receiver -- move him out, move him around. At first it was so different for him, but he's really adapted well to it. He's really kind of thrived with it."

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace." Davis has been studying old Rams footage of receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt to learn how to polish his routes. "Instead of breaking down and head-faking and doing all these things, we're going to use his speed," Martz said. "And I think he understands that really well at this point." (notice his 40 yard grab in his last preseason game Link @1:07 ).

This is a solid post. I am a bit leery to start him over Donald Lee this week, but you are definitely making me question my choice with your reasoning.

 

[Banger]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

I've definitely read that but last week Nate Jackson was "starting" in front of Scheffler too. I've read everything I can get my hands on while researching him and the opportunity this summer and my jist is...-Martz is very excited to have and his talent

-They have gameplanned to exploit his talent by lining him up in different positions (as a wr at times)

-He's noticed some flaws in his game and they've worked on them (slows down as he catch's the ball, etc.)

-Davis has worked very hard and feels that he's going to be a huge part of the offense (usually guys know what their role in the offense will be based on the # of plays drawn up for them).

-Davis is actually a good blocker but Martz doesn't run the ball so that won't be an issue

here's a few quotes..."Well, 52 (catches) is pretty good production. That's really good for the tight end position. What we'll try to do with him is try to take advantage of his speed more, probably, than what they've done in the past. We'll try to get him down the field, more or less like a wide receiver -- move him out, move him around. At first it was so different for him, but he's really adapted well to it. He's really kind of thrived with it."

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace." Davis has been studying old Rams footage of receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt to learn how to polish his routes. "Instead of breaking down and head-faking and doing all these things, we're going to use his speed," Martz said. "And I think he understands that really well at this point." (notice his 40 yard grab in his last preseason game Link @1:07 ).

This is a solid post. I am a bit leery to start him over Donald Lee this week, but you are definitely making me question my choice with your reasoning.

I might be leary to start him over Shockey/Cooley/Gates/Gonzo but I wouldn't even think about it over D. Lee. Maybe I'm missing on the Lee boat but I think with a new QB (not Favre) he's as unpredictable as Davis, without the upside. Watch you'll start Davis and he'll go for 2-14 and Lee will go nuts.....

 

[jdoggydogg]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

I've definitely read that but last week Nate Jackson was "starting" in front of Scheffler too. I've read everything I can get my hands on while researching him and the opportunity this summer and my jist is...-Martz is very excited to have and his talent

-They have gameplanned to exploit his talent by lining him up in different positions (as a wr at times)

-He's noticed some flaws in his game and they've worked on them (slows down as he catch's the ball, etc.)

-Davis has worked very hard and feels that he's going to be a huge part of the offense (usually guys know what their role in the offense will be based on the # of plays drawn up for them).

-Davis is actually a good blocker but Martz doesn't run the ball so that won't be an issue

here's a few quotes..."Well, 52 (catches) is pretty good production. That's really good for the tight end position. What we'll try to do with him is try to take advantage of his speed more, probably, than what they've done in the past. We'll try to get him down the field, more or less like a wide receiver -- move him out, move him around. At first it was so different for him, but he's really adapted well to it. He's really kind of thrived with it."

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace." Davis has been studying old Rams footage of receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt to learn how to polish his routes. "Instead of breaking down and head-faking and doing all these things, we're going to use his speed," Martz said. "And I think he understands that really well at this point." (notice his 40 yard grab in his last preseason game Link @1:07 ).

This is a solid post. I am a bit leery to start him over Donald Lee this week, but you are definitely making me question my choice with your reasoning.

I might be leary to start him over Shockey/Cooley/Gates/Gonzo but I wouldn't even think about it over D. Lee. Maybe I'm missing on the Lee boat but I think with a new QB (not Favre) he's as unpredictable as Davis, without the upside. Watch you'll start Davis and he'll go for 2-14 and Lee will go nuts.....

I am a little gunshy because last year I started Davis and Gore together a few times and while Gore still seemes to carve out a few points on a bad team, Davis would absolutely kill me.

 

[Banger]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

I've definitely read that but last week Nate Jackson was "starting" in front of Scheffler too. I've read everything I can get my hands on while researching him and the opportunity this summer and my jist is...-Martz is very excited to have and his talent

-They have gameplanned to exploit his talent by lining him up in different positions (as a wr at times)

-He's noticed some flaws in his game and they've worked on them (slows down as he catch's the ball, etc.)

-Davis has worked very hard and feels that he's going to be a huge part of the offense (usually guys know what their role in the offense will be based on the # of plays drawn up for them).

-Davis is actually a good blocker but Martz doesn't run the ball so that won't be an issue

here's a few quotes..."Well, 52 (catches) is pretty good production. That's really good for the tight end position. What we'll try to do with him is try to take advantage of his speed more, probably, than what they've done in the past. We'll try to get him down the field, more or less like a wide receiver -- move him out, move him around. At first it was so different for him, but he's really adapted well to it. He's really kind of thrived with it."

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace." Davis has been studying old Rams footage of receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt to learn how to polish his routes. "Instead of breaking down and head-faking and doing all these things, we're going to use his speed," Martz said. "And I think he understands that really well at this point." (notice his 40 yard grab in his last preseason game Link @1:07 ).

This is a solid post. I am a bit leery to start him over Donald Lee this week, but you are definitely making me question my choice with your reasoning.

I might be leary to start him over Shockey/Cooley/Gates/Gonzo but I wouldn't even think about it over D. Lee. Maybe I'm missing on the Lee boat but I think with a new QB (not Favre) he's as unpredictable as Davis, without the upside. Watch you'll start Davis and he'll go for 2-14 and Lee will go nuts.....

I am a little gunshy because last year I started Davis and Gore together a few times and while Gore still seemes to carve out a few points on a bad team, Davis would absolutely kill me.

that's right, I forgot you had Gore as well. I agree that's a different consideration. I can understand going to safer route....

 

[thatguy]

"They're OK," Davis said. "They're all right. I believe I'm up there too at their level, maybe even better. I'm saying I'm going to have a great season. An awesome one."

What a jackass. In my opinion he should shut his mouth and play football. To call two of the best TE's in football, including perhaps the best ever, "OK" and to claim he might be better than them is ridiculous considering what little he's done in his short and , at least until now, disappointing career.

It's one thing to say he thinks he'll have a good year and hopes to join those guys as elite, but to give them so little respect is what really bothers me.

 

[Banger]

"They're OK," Davis said. "They're all right. I believe I'm up there too at their level, maybe even better. I'm saying I'm going to have a great season. An awesome one."

What a jackass. In my opinion he should shut his mouth and play football. To call two of the best TE's in football, including perhaps the best ever, "OK" and to claim he might be better than them is ridiculous considering what little he's done in his short and , at least until now, disappointing career.

It's one thing to say he thinks he'll have a good year and hopes to join those guys as elite, but to give them so little respect is what really bothers me.

Agreed. Winslow said basically the same thing a while back and I didn't hold it against him and I won't hold it against Davis. I probably won't have him over for a beer but it won't stop me from drafting him...

 

[Hemi-Colon]

Last year, I was one of the people who screamed "Buyer Beware" on VD. I had seen him over and over drop balls, miss assignments, and do stupid things like call out future hall of famers(Larry Allen). Having watched him very closely in OTA's and camp this year, I feel it is only necessary for me to revisit V.Davis again. I can honestly say that he has impressed me more than any other Niner camp attendee. I have not seen him drop more than 4-5 catchable balls in team or individual drills. I have witnessed him stay on the field after every final horn has blown to take 10yd bullets from the Juggs machine. Whereas he would be involved in at least 1-2 stupid scrums every day, he has only to my recollection been in 1 all of camp, as a third man in if I recall correctly. This turn around in work ethic, and attitude has more than impressed me, as I thought it could never possibly happen. I am not going to say that this is the "break-out" year for him, but I feel almost because I did trash him so harshly, as if I owe it to him to acknowledge his obvious hard work. I'll close with this. Non-Buyers beware of Vernon Davis, because his mentality may have finally caught up to his athleticism.

This is a re-post, but thought it might apply. FYI, VD got a lot of looks in red zone portion of todays practice.

 

[jdoggydogg]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

I've definitely read that but last week Nate Jackson was "starting" in front of Scheffler too. I've read everything I can get my hands on while researching him and the opportunity this summer and my jist is...-Martz is very excited to have and his talent

-They have gameplanned to exploit his talent by lining him up in different positions (as a wr at times)

-He's noticed some flaws in his game and they've worked on them (slows down as he catch's the ball, etc.)

-Davis has worked very hard and feels that he's going to be a huge part of the offense (usually guys know what their role in the offense will be based on the # of plays drawn up for them).

-Davis is actually a good blocker but Martz doesn't run the ball so that won't be an issue

here's a few quotes..."Well, 52 (catches) is pretty good production. That's really good for the tight end position. What we'll try to do with him is try to take advantage of his speed more, probably, than what they've done in the past. We'll try to get him down the field, more or less like a wide receiver -- move him out, move him around. At first it was so different for him, but he's really adapted well to it. He's really kind of thrived with it."

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace." Davis has been studying old Rams footage of receivers Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt to learn how to polish his routes. "Instead of breaking down and head-faking and doing all these things, we're going to use his speed," Martz said. "And I think he understands that really well at this point." (notice his 40 yard grab in his last preseason game Link @1:07 ).

This is a solid post. I am a bit leery to start him over Donald Lee this week, but you are definitely making me question my choice with your reasoning.

I might be leary to start him over Shockey/Cooley/Gates/Gonzo but I wouldn't even think about it over D. Lee. Maybe I'm missing on the Lee boat but I think with a new QB (not Favre) he's as unpredictable as Davis, without the upside. Watch you'll start Davis and he'll go for 2-14 and Lee will go nuts.....

I am a little gunshy because last year I started Davis and Gore together a few times and while Gore still seemes to carve out a few points on a bad team, Davis would absolutely kill me.

that's right, I forgot you had Gore as well. I agree that's a different consideration. I can understand going to safer route....

As good as the Vikes D is, they gave up the most catches to TEs in the league last year. So I'm comfortable playing Lee this week.

 

[49erBamBam52]

"That's how you get to the Pro Bowl and all those other things by catching the ball, I never heard of a tight end going to the Pro Bowl by blocking. It's about making catches."

what a jackass.

why???does he not have a point?BAM

 

[Banger]

Last year, I was one of the people who screamed "Buyer Beware" on VD. I had seen him over and over drop balls, miss assignments, and do stupid things like call out future hall of famers(Larry Allen). Having watched him very closely in OTA's and camp this year, I feel it is only necessary for me to revisit V.Davis again. I can honestly say that he has impressed me more than any other Niner camp attendee. I have not seen him drop more than 4-5 catchable balls in team or individual drills. I have witnessed him stay on the field after every final horn has blown to take 10yd bullets from the Juggs machine. Whereas he would be involved in at least 1-2 stupid scrums every day, he has only to my recollection been in 1 all of camp, as a third man in if I recall correctly. This turn around in work ethic, and attitude has more than impressed me, as I thought it could never possibly happen. I am not going to say that this is the "break-out" year for him, but I feel almost because I did trash him so harshly, as if I owe it to him to acknowledge his obvious hard work. I'll close with this. Non-Buyers beware of Vernon Davis, because his mentality may have finally caught up to his athleticism.

This is a re-post, but thought it might apply. FYI, VD got a lot of looks in red zone portion of todays practice.

 

[kawaihae]

bump....any updated opinions on Davis and his prospects this year?

He%s a very intriguing player to me this year. I%ve always avoided him due to his price and this year when I think a higher price would be somewhat justified, his ADP is as low as ever. His QB situations/offensive situations in his 1st 2 years have been about as bad as they can be. Maybe I%m too much of a Martz believer but I think he will improve the passing offense and those yards have to go somwhere. They threw for an anemic 2,685 yards last year and a Martz team has never had less than 4,000. Now I%m not expecting that but I do think he%ll improve the passing stats quite a bit. Consider in the Lions (Harrington) threw for 2,961 and the following season Martz comes aboard with Kitna and they increase yardage by 42% to 4,208. Harrington = A. Smith, does Sullivan = Kitna?

He%s got sick measurables but will he finally be put in a position to succeed? I think he breaks out this year and becomes the player that people have failed to see so far. Last year on that horrible team he still finished 14th so his downside is limited.

what do you guys think???

I am taking a wait and see approach. I think that Martz doesn't have a lot of WR weapons and will find a way to integrate Vernon as a key cog in the offense. But until I trust Martz, I am starting Donald Lee over Davis.

wow, I think a game against the Card's is a prime opportunity for him. AZ was ranked 28th last year vs. the pass and the Jets were 9th.

Oh, it's an awesome opportunity. Part of my decision is I have Gore, and I don't want two 49ers starting for me until I see JT O'Sullivan play in a real game.

Also, did you read Martz's comments about Vernon? He loves Davis' blocking skills. You can interpret that in one of two ways: 1) Martz is throwing out a red herring and plans to use Davis more than he is revealing, or 2) Martz has a history of under-utilizing TEs and plans to have Davis block more than Davis wants to.

If I were an NFL offensive coordinator, and I planned to use a TE a ton, this is EXACTLY what I would report to everyone about my intentions.

 

[Hipple Long Ware & Peete]

Hasn't Davis said this every year?

all 2 of em?

 

[HoTnickZ]

How inaccurate is JT? Because if he is all over the place, increased targets will mean squat.