Olsen's Exit Opens Door for Davis............
I already like him. He's a Sox fan, LOL.
Olsen's exit opens door for Bears' Davis
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http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/...7/63630738.jpg Tight end Kellen Davis talks about Greg Olsen being traded. (Phil Velasquez, Chicago Tribune / July 29, 2011)
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By Vaughn McClure Tribune Reporter 10:31 a.m. CDT, July 30, 2011
BOURBONNAIS -- Bears tight end Kellen Davis has shown flashes of his upside in three seasons. Maybe now he’ll get to show a little more.
With Greg Olsen shipped to Carolina in exchange for a third-round pick (2012) and Brandon Manumaleuna released, Davis should see more playing time in offensive coordinator Mike Martz’s scheme.
"I feel like it’s a good opportunity to move up the depth chart,’’ Davis said. "I’ve got to try to take the next step.’’
The Bears did add free-agent tight end Matt Spaeth to the mix. The former Steeler can't join the team for practice until Thursday, meaning plenty of first-team reps for Davis.
Sure, the tight end has never been a staple of Martz’s offense, but Davis has the size (6-7, 262) and strength to be an effective blocker and pass-catcher.
Davis started three games last season yet managed just one catch for 19 yards -- a touchdown. He has four-career receiving touchdowns.
With the additions of big receivers Roy Williams and Sam Hurd, it seems less likely that the tight ends will be called upon as much in the passing game. They combined for 48 receptions last season, led by Olsen’s 41.
Davis is confident in his blocking and comfortable with any role the coaches ask him to fill, although he’s still shocked by Olsen’s sudden departure.
"I was headed down to camp and I was getting calls about it,’’ Davis said. "It was crazy. I was like, 'What is going on?’ It was just so unexpected.
"But Greg got a great deal in Carolina. He got broke off. Hopefully, he can do well there. And hopefully, I can take the next step here.’’
vxmcclure@tribune.com
twitter:@vxmcclure23