Earlier in the week, as we discussed how the San Francisco 49ers’ passing game will evolve, ESPN analyst Matt Williamson said that tight end Vernon Davis needs to take on a bigger role.
“Davis has to step up huge and become a true No. 1 receiving option, which he is physically capable of, but few tight ends can make that distinction,” Williamson said.
Williamson’s thoughts are now shared by Randy Moss. The new Fox Sports analyst – who spent last season in the 49ers' offense – said in a conference call (via Cam Inman of the Bay Area News Group) that he didn’t think Davis had a great on-field rapport with 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick.
Kaepernick took over the quarterback job last season and sparked the 49ers all the way to the Super Bowl. Still, Moss, who is astute and opinionated when he wants to be, is skeptical.
“From my time there last year, it didn’t seem Kaepernick and Vernon Davis had a rapport. They haven’t shown that yet,” Moss said.
Kaepernick and Davis did have a strong connection in the playoffs. In the final six games of the regular season, Davis had just six catches. But in three postseason games he caught 12 passes for 254 yards and a touchdown.
Davis addressed the issue Thursday, saying, "I feel like me and Kaepernick are on a different level than where we were last year."
San Francisco coach Jim Harbaugh doesn’t need to hear from analysts and former players. He knows the Kaepernick-Davis connection is paramount, especially with the team's injuries at receiver. It has been a focal point during training camp.
Expect the 49ers to quickly establish chemistry between Kaepernick and Davis moving forward.