49ers send Davis to Broncos

Associated Press

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.

John Elway likes to talk about the long-term vision, winning “not only now but from now on.”

Coming off a 500-yard performance and a shellacking of the Green Bay Packers, the boss of the unbeaten Denver Broncos made a bold move that shows he’s all in for 2015.

Denver’s general manager sent a pair of late-round draft picks to the San Francisco 49ers for two-time Pro Bowl tight end Vernon Davis on Monday, the first big move on the eve of the league’s trading deadline.

Elway called the 31-year-old veteran “a big weapon for us,” one who’ll add experience, speed and leadership to an offense that can use more big-play ability.

Davis gives the Broncos (7-0) some firepower over the middle that Peyton Manning has been missing since losing Julius Thomas and Jacob Tamme to free agency, and rookie Jeff Heuerman to a knee injury just a week after the draft.

The 10th-year pro has 55 career touchdown catches.

“Thank you @49ers for 10 amazing years. Its been a blessing to play for such an incredible organization,” Davis posted Monday night on Twitter. “Shout out to all of the coaches, staff, and teammates that made this chapter a very special one in my life. Most of all, a very special thank you to the #49erfaithful family.”

The 49ers will get sixth-round picks in 2016 and 2017 and the Broncos also receive a seventh-round pick in 2016. If Davis, who’s due about $2.3 million on the final year of his contract, can quickly adapt to Gary Kubiak’s offense and finish strong, the Broncos could also get a compensatory draft pick if Davis leaves after the season and signs elsewhere.

“I have great feelings for Vernon and everything he’s accomplished here,” 49ers coach Jim Tomsula said on KNBR radio. “He’s a good man. We wish him nothing but success.”

A sixth-round pick out of Maryland in 2006, Davis had 441 catches for 5,640 yards and 55 TDs for the 49ers. He added 27 catches for 600 yards and seven TDs in eight playoff games. His seven playoff TDs are tied for first among tight ends in NFL history.

Davis had 13 TD receptions in 2009 and ‘13, making the Pro Bowl both seasons. He’s the franchise leader in receptions, receiving yards and TDs by a tight end.

“On behalf of the entire 49ers organization, I would like to thank Vernon for his decade of contributions to this team and our community,” 49ers GM Trent Baalke said in a statement. “Not only has he contributed to some of the most memorable moments in franchise history, but he has also positively impacted the lives of many others through his efforts in the community. We wish Vernon and his family continued success in both football and life.”