49ers Trade Vernon Davis To Denver Broncos
SANTA CLARA (CBS SF) -- Former All-Pro tight end Vernon Davis, one of the longest-tenured players on the San Francisco 49ers, has been traded to the Denver Broncos.
Both the 49ers and Broncos general manager John Elway confirmed reports on the trade Monday afternoon. ESPN reporter Adam Schefter tweeted Davis was being traded along with a 7th round draft pick in 2016 for a 6th round pick in 2016 and a 6th round pick in 2017.
"On behalf of the entire 49ers organization, I would like to thank Vernon for his decade of contributions to this team and our community," said 49ers General Manager Trent Baalke said in an press release. "Not only has he contributed to some of the most memorable moments in franchise history, but he has also positively impacted the lives of many others through his efforts in the community. We wish Vernon and his family continued success in both football and life."
A two-time Pro-Bowler, Davis co-led the league in touchdown receptions in 2009 with 13 and matched that total in 2013, making him the only tight end in NFL history with 13 or more touchdown receptions in two seasons. He is tied for first among all tight ends in NFL history with seven career playofff touchdowns.
At one time, Davis was the NFL's highest-paid tight end after signing a five-year extension with the 49ers at the start of the 2010 season.
Davis has seen his production drop dramatically over the last couple of seasons. Last season, Davis had only two touchdown catches while battling injuries and has none this season.
The 49ers selected Davis in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Maryland. During a game in 2008, he was famously benched for an unsportmanlike conduct penalty and poor attitude by then-head coach Mike Singletary. Davis credits the incident with turning around his focus from himself to the team and helping becoming a better player. Singletary subsequently named Davis team captain in 2009.
Davis has set franchise records for the most receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns by a tight end.
49ers fans will always remember Davis for his role in one of the most exciting plays in team history. In the Divisional Playoff game at Candlestick Park against the New Orleans Saints following the 2011 season, Davis caught a winning touchdown pass from quarterback Alex Smith with nine seconds left. The play is now simply known by the 49er Faithful as the "Vernon Post."
