San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis confirmed via a post on CNN Sports Illustrated’s Monday Morning Quarterback that his holdout was purely based on financial reasons.
“In 2010 I signed a five-year, $37 million contract extension with $23 million guaranteed. It was the biggest contract for a tight end in league history. Four years later, and I’m playing at a higher level than I was then, which brings me to why I’m holding out. It’s all about getting paid what you deserve. It’s not that complicated.”
For those wondering, Davis’ deal breaks out to an average of $7.35 million on the rest of this deal which trails only Rob Gronkowski ($9 million) and Jason Witten. ($7.4 million)
Davis went on to talk about his desire to see the 49ers win the Super Bowl but made it clear his first priority was himself.
“I want the 49ers to win the Super Bowl, and I want to be on the field this summer working toward that goal, but I have to worry about my future first. Most of my teammates and many players in the NFL understand that. A few don’t. Behind closed doors, they’ll say they’re all about the team and would run through a brick wall for the organization. But when you look closer, they’re doing things to contradict themselves. I can’t listen to anyone but my family and my advisors, because those are the people who are going to be there when football inevitably dumps me.”
Davis caught 52 passes for 850 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2013.
