Players Tend To Improve Most From First To Second Year

By Len Pasquarelli ESPN.com

Here are a few more players who either didn't get much playing time or fell short of expectations as rookies in 2006, but are being counted on to play significant roles in 2007

Brodie Croyle, Chiefs , Sinorice Moss, Giants, Brodrick Bunkley,Eagles, DeAngelo Williams, Panthers

(But of course, most importantly, here's where our guy comes in on the list),

Vernon Davis, 49ers

Many observers felt Davis, San Francisco's wonderously gifted tight end, might challenge for Rookie of the Year honors, but injuries limited him to 10 appearances, eight starts and 20 receptions. It should help Davis some in 2007 that the 49ers upgraded their wide receiver corps, at least modestly, in the offseason. What will benefit him more, though, is good health. Davis has the kind of physical tools to be a monster in the San Francisco offense and emerge as a viable playmaker.