49ers' Vance McDonald found perspective in…
49ers' Vance McDonald found perspective in fatherhood
By Cam Inman and Bay Area News Group |
PUBLISHED: August 24, 2016 at 9:15 a.m. | UPDATED: April 20, 2018 at 6:41 a.m.
SANTA CLARA — Vance McDonald, more than anyone, has benefited from Blaine Gabbert at quarterback for the 49ers this exhibition season.
Is that a byproduct of last season's emerging bond? Is it Chip Kelly's scheme being tight-end friendly? Is it McDonald's rookie contract coming due?
All could be true, but McDonald has another explanation for his team-leading nine catches (92 yards, one touchdown) entering Friday's exhibition against the Green Bay Packers. In becoming a father last month, he gained a simplified outlook on life.
"It brings color to your eyes," McDonald said. "You don't sweat little things anymore."
After being at his wife Kendi's side for her 30-hour labor, the Texas high school sweethearts spent four more nights at the hospital while their son, Coman, was treated for jaundice. Less than two weeks later, McDonald began the best training camp of his four-year career.
"It comes down to a little focus," McDonald. "On top of the pressure being off, it's about just coming in, letting loose and approaching the game like what it is: a game.
"Eliminating all the other stress and pressure, it kind of adds up."
McDonald hasn't had the production expected out of a 2013 second-round draft pick. He had 10 catches and various injuries his first two seasons. Then he broke out last season with 30 receptions, or specifically 25 after Gabbert replaced Colin Kaepernick as the starter.
Once camp opened this summer, Kelly reminded players they control their attitude and whether to arrive at work in a positive mindset. "I've heard that before," McDonald said, "but for whatever reason when he said it … it struck home. He's easy to listen to."
McDonald and Garrett Celek aren't necessarily battling for a starting position. Both should see ample action in two tight-end sets in Kelly's offense, helping compensate for a suspect wide receiver corps.
"Vance has made some plays for us, and Garrett will have his chance to make some, too," offensive coordinator Curtis Modkins said.
If Gabbert holds off Kaepernick for the starting job, McDonald should get more chances, based on the past year.
"We all know in the National Football League, when the quarterback is in a pickle, or he's in a tight situation, he'll look for a big body and throw to the tight end," said McDonald (6-foot-4, 267 pounds).
"Whether that happens more in a Chip offense, that's for you guys to debate," McDonald added. "The ball has just found me so far. And it has in Chip's offense."
His once-suspect hands look improved. Nothing beats holding a newborn in them, however.
Even after his 43-yard touchdown catch highlighted the 49ers' exhibition opener, McDonald brought up his newfound status: "Being a dad is like the best thing ever."
A former first-round draft pick and starter at right tackle, Davis sat out last season and has impressed the coaches with his willingness to work his way up the depth chart upon his return.
"Anthony's been fine," Modkins said. "With him, it's a deal of getting him comfortable. So we'll try and get him more (work) and we'll see where he's at. No decision's been made yet."
Asked what about his skill set makes him suited to guard, Davis said "Big man, quick hands and I can bend well. It'll take some time to get used to it."
To speed up the transition, Davis plans on contacting a former teammate.
"I'll spend some time watching Mike Iupati," Davis said of the Arizona Cardinals starting guard. "I'll call Mike. He'll help me out."
Garnett said that he's up for whatever the 49ers have in store and said he would be fine if he doesn't start in Week 1 against the Los Angeles Rams.
"I wouldn't be disappointed," Garnett said. "Whatever is going to help the team out. If I'm helping the team in any way, I'm going to be excited about that. If I'm starting, swinging, coming in in certain situations, whatever I need to do to contribute."
Staff writer Jerry McDonald contributed to this story For more on the 49ers, see Cam Inman's Hot Read blog at . Follow him on Twitter at .
Cam Inman