Vernon Davis: “Not The End Of The World” If He Doesn’t Get A New Contract

49ers TE Vernon Davis tells the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that although he would like to secure a long-term contract before the start of the season, “it’s not the end of the world” if he doesn’t get it.

“It’s obvious that we want a new contract. I want a new contract,” Davis said. “It’s just like any athlete, we all want a new contract. But I’m not going to stress over it. It’s not the end of the world if I don’t get it. If I get it, that’s good. It’s moving slowly, but surely. At the end of the day, if I don’t get the deal, at least I tried and I put my foot down. If I don’t get it at the moment, I’m not going to lose any sleep.

Davis added that he is hoping Saints TE Jimmy Graham wins his dispute over whether or not he should qualify as a receiver based on where he has lined up over the course of his career because it would directly impact tight ends.

If Graham were to win his case, it could push the ceiling for tight ends up to $12 million annually, which is in line with the franchise tag for receivers. Tight ends would make close to $7 million by playing under the franchise tender, so you can see that there is plenty to gain in this situation for players than just Graham.

Broncos TE Julius Thomas, who is entering the final year of his contract, even admitted that he is also watching the situation involving Graham.

Davis, 30, signed a six-year, $42.705 million contract that included $23 million guaranteed. He has base salaries of $4.7 million and $4.35 million coming his way over the next two years.

Although OTAs are voluntary, Davis has sacrificed his annual $200,000 workout bonus by skipping them.

Last year, Davis caught 52 passes for 850 yards receiving and scored 13 touchdowns for the 49ers. Pro Football Focus had him rated as the No. 7 tight end in the league.