With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the hottest name on the market is Vernon Davis. While Steve Smith, Roddy White and Matt Forte have had their names tossed around in stories, the most likely deal could be the veteran tight end who is currently sitting on the San Francisco 49ers with no chance of returning in 2016. With injuries and a big contract to his name, does Davis actually leave the Bay Area?
According to Ian Rapoport, the 49ers are open to dealing Davis as they aim to try and rebuild in the coming offseason. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Davis would welcome a trade from 49ers for the change of scenery and the chance to play more. Davis himself told Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com that he would be upset if he were traded, but he understands this is the way the NFL works.
"I've been a Niner for 10 years," Davis told Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com. "This is all I know. It's really not about me being upset. I understand the nature of the business. It's a business, it is. If anyone was somewhere for 10 years, they'd be highly upset, highly disappointed. But you have to understand, after all of this, it's a business. I have no intention of going anywhere. But sometimes things happen and you just have to be prepared for it. I think anyone would be upset."
Davis had a stock-improving game on Thursday night against Seattle. The tight end had 61 yards and considering the team put together 142 yards of total offense, that is impressive. Davis has dealt with injuries this season while getting replaced by Garrett Celek and Vance McDonald. He is still a trusted veteran with value in the league as a number of teams could show interest in the coming days.
According to Bleacher Report, the Green Bay Packers could be an option with injuries to Davante Adams and Ty Montgomery thinning out the roster. The Atlanta Falcons could look for help with Jacob Tamme. Levin Toilolo has not been overly impressive. The Carolina Panthers could use another passing threat for Cam Newton to work with. All three teams could aim for a deal for Davis as a second-half upgrade to help get to the postseason.
The biggest issue with a trade for Davis is the fact that the tight end is owed more than $2 million left on his contract. A team must be willing to give up a draft pick in order to get a one-season rental player. That is not always the smartest move, but for contending teams getting hit with injuries, it could be their best option.
