With Michael Crabtree in the 49ers lineup since 2011, Vernon Davis has averaged 0.43 touchdowns per game. Without him, his touchdown total jumps to 0.82. That’s a difference of about six across an entire season.
On Sunday, Davis started his 2014 campaign with a pair of scores on just six targets. I say “just” because, with the second-best tight end score in fantasy football, you’d think he saw more action. Not the case.
If you can unload on VD and get something valuable in return, it’s not a bad idea. He’ll be inconsistent week to week with Michael Crabtree healthy – and keep in mind Crabtree was a game-time decision this week – and could bring a nice return given his solid Week 1. Though he’s done it twice in his career, it’d be surprising to see him get close to that 13 touchdown mark this season.