Former Commanders tight end reveals key secret behind career longevity

Former Washington Commanders tight end Vernon Davis revealed a telling secret behind his career longevity that spanned 14 NFL seasons.

The Washington Commanders could be looking for tight-end reinforcements this offseason. Logan Thomas looks like a salary-cap-cut candidate. Cole Turner didn't break out as many hoped. John Bates seems more like a blocking specialist at this stage of his career. Unfortunately for those in power, there aren't many like Vernon Davis around to upgrade the unit.

Davis is widely regarded as one of the most athletically gifted tight ends in recent memory. The two-time Pro Bowler spent the final four years of his career in Washington, gaining 122 receptions for 1,721 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. His power waned and injuries began mounting up towards the end. He eventually hung up his cleats after the 2019 campaign.

This does not detract from the outstanding contribution Davis made throughout his time in the league. There were very few would could cover him effectively at the peak of his powers. He won a Super Bowl title with the San Francisco 49ers. Big things were expected of someone who was taken No. 6 overall in the 2006 NFL Draft. One could make a strong case for the Maryland product exceeding lofty targets.

Vernon Davis provided helpful hints to the next generation

Davis has been doing the rounds at Radio Row in Las Vegas heading into this weekend's crunch Super Bowl clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the team that drafted him. He spent some time with FanSided's reporters to discuss various insightful topics. He also revealed the secret to his career longevity which spanned 14 seasons.

"I would have to say stretching. Stretching all the time. I would stretch numerous times a day. Chiropractor. Massage. All of that. I would say those are the things that kept me going. You've gotta be able to adjust. I used to walk on the side of my ankles. I would turn my ankles and just walk like that. If you think about it, if you're in that position in a game, the reason why guys roll their ankles is they're not moving it enough. If you're flexible, you don't have to worry about twisting your ankle."

- Vernon Davis via FanSided

That's not to say Davis didn't have his fair share of injury problems during his lengthy stint in the league. He endured some rough rehabilitation at times. But the ability to focus on his body and use every resource to enable maximum performance seemed to overcome all the stumbling blocks until Father Time took hold.

How the Commanders wish they had someone like Davis right now. They are without a complete force at the position. The aforementioned trio of Thomas, Turner, and Bates are all decent at one specific thing. None are the total package like the man who spearheaded Washington's group during some turbulent times.

Hopefully, the Commanders can find their next-gen Davis this offseason. And make no mistake, the new regime boasts the necessary resources to pull something notable from their arsenal.

Vernon Davis participated in this Super Bowl Media Week interview on behalf of Smirnoff.