Niner Noise
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San Francisco 49ers: 5 best tight ends in franchise history

By Logan Stanley

Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) catches a touchdown pass in the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) catches a touchdown pass in the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) catches a touchdown pass in the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) catches a touchdown pass in the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 1: Vernon Davis

49ers Tenure: 2006 – 2015

Pro Bowl Selections: 2

Easily the most athletic tight end in the history of the franchise, Vernon Davis used those abilities to the fullest extent during his time with the Niners. Built like a linebacker who could run like a wide receiver, Davis was one of the few shining spots both during the low and high points of the team.

After recording 13 touchdowns and 985 yards, he was selected to his first Pro Bowl in 2009 — the same season when San Francisco went 8-8.

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It would be four years later when he was selected to his second Pro Bowl, again after posting 13 touchdowns and 850 yards — the same season when San Francisco went 12-4. Simply put, Davis was a consistent variable, whether the team was good or not.

And even when the team had reached an elite level, he was still the main receiving option. From 2011 to 2013, the peak of those teams, Davis was always in the top two in terms of receiving statistics. Overall, Davis’ final tally reflects his contribution to the team:

  • 441 receptions (most by a 49ers tight end)
  • 5,640 yards (most by a 49ers tight end)
  • 55 touchdowns (most by a 49ers tight end; fourth overall)

There is no denying the talent of Vernon Davis, and the numbers back it up.

Next. 49ers' 5 best running backs in franchise history. dark

Undeniably, tight end is a weak position in regards to historical terms for the San Francisco 49ers franchise. A lopsided list, the team aims to reverse that trend and begin to produce impactful players at the position.