A Night Out With Vernon Davis

Former Maryland Terrapin and Washington Football Team Alum Talks Success After His Career In The NFL

 By Tiffany Young

On and off the field, Vernon Davis was always filled with personality. It was probably something he always had in him since he was a kid. A little mix of determination, focus and being open to the great possibilities is what landed him on the road to success after playing in the NFL for nearly 14 years. In his second act, he’s working on his craft as an actor and being taken seriously, just like the days when he played tight end with the Washington Football Team.

A Washington, DC native, Davis played college football at the University of Maryland, and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers sixth overall in the 2006 NFL Draft. In 2009, Davis co-led the NFL in touchdown receptions and consequently earned his first of two career Pro Bowl selections. In the 2011–12 NFL playoffs with the 49ers, Davis caught the game-winning touchdown pass from Alex Smith against the New Orleans Saints, in play referred to as "The Catch III."

In 2015, Davis was traded to the Denver Broncos, where he won Super Bowl 50 with the team over the Carolina Panthers. In 2016, he signed with the Washington Football Team and played there until his retirement following the 2019 season. The Washington Football Team recently welcomed Davis back to FedEx Field in Landover and hosted a fireside chat with him. Whether a fan of Davis’ or of the team, many walked away with getting to know his humor and what the keys to his success.

“Coming back to a place that I loved since I was a kid was a dream come true to play for the home team.  [There’s] nothing like it. There were so many memories to share with my family.  It was an honor and privilege,” Davis said.

As an American football player, Davis spent his career chasing the dream of winning a Super Bowl, a dream most football players can relate too. However, he was chasing a few other dreams and many came true. He participated in the Olympics, he opened an art studio, started a nonprofit and most recently starred alongside one of his favorite actors; Morgan Freeman.

“It was a challenge at first because I didn't know what I wanted to do. I had some adversities growing up. But it was my sophomore year in high school that I walked into the coach’s office and told him I wanted to score touchdowns,” he said.

During college, Davis was an in-demand player. He decided to stay in the area for his college of choice, to be close to family and he was ultimately drafted as the 6th pick in the first round in the NFL. His family was there to help him celebrate including his younger brother, Vontae Davis, who is now a retired cornerback. Vontae played for the Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, and Buffalo Bills.

When Davis is not participating in guest appearances as a Washington Football Team alum, he is rehearsing his lines and perfecting his skills as an actor. Davis started making cameo appearances in a few movies in 2013.  He’s acted in eight films and says he has plans to continue.

“I didn't realize my life would be so busy. Going to filming sets, traveling, premiers it keeps me going. These last four years since I retired have been a whirlwind,” he says.

Davis credits never giving up and never letting people define him as contributing to his success. He is a true hometown guy and continues to serve as a role model for others.