Is calling Vernon Davis a real life and fantasy football bust for the last two years a stretch? Most certainly not. His seven touchdowns over two years are decent at best in 24 games, particularly when you consider that he was a first round pick. And 774 yards in that span = meh. But this year, oh yes, this year, Vernon has big expectations, what with Mike Martz rolling in town. And apparently that includes mocking Tony Gonzalez and Jason Witten.
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."Vernon went on to say that he expects 70 catches, 1,000 yards and a Pro Bowl this season (but not because of his blocking ... "It's about making catches".)
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."
Now, I'll buy that Vernon is as talented as they come when you look at tight ends in the NFL, but talent as a tight end doesn't move the ball from under center into his hands 30 feet further down the field.
And sure, Martz' presence should do wonders for Vernon's productivity ... if it works for Alex Smith first. So, my point here is that it's probably better to not disrespect two of the games best tight ends until you click-clack your way into the end zone a few more times.
Fantasy Spin: Gonzo is on the back end of his career, sure, but Witten is in his prime, and as you can see by our tight end rankings, we actually like him better than anyone on else in terms of fantasy potential. Davis, on the other hand, checks in at number seven.
I actually like Davis -- despite his unnecessary blabbing seen above -- if you can get him late enough. But I'm not dumping an elite pick for a guy that's only elite in his mind this year. If Vernon slides to you in the latter part of the top ten rounds, grab him, otherwise you're better waiting and plucking someone cheaper with less self hype.
