Derek Carrier's Fantasy Outlook After Vernon Davis' Injury

Derek Carrier might not be the flashiest name available on the waiver wire, but the third-year tight end could be worth a look if the San Francisco 49ers' Vernon Davis is forced to miss significant time with an ankle injury.

Davis left the Niners' Sunday night matchup against the Chicago Bears after recording three receptions, per the team's official Twitter feed:

While most fans will have expected to see Vance McDonald take Davis' spot, Jim Harbaugh surprised everyone by rolling with Carrier. The converted receiver did well in limited action, catching three passes on four targets for 41 yards, according to ESPN. 

As reported by The Sacramento Bee's Matt Barrows, it later became clear Carrier got his chance because McDonald was also struggling with an injury. McDonald returned to the field for the second half, handling the majority of the snaps.

While not much of a blocker, Carrier presents an interesting target in the passing game. He flashed some potential with the ball in his hands and found ways to get open frequently. Coupled with McDonald's struggles in the passing game, he could get an extended look during practice in the week.

Everything depends on Davis' availability, however. The two-time Pro Bowler left the game on crutches but didn't appear to be in a great deal of pain, and the team is yet to comment on the severity of his injury.

It's no secret the Niners are a power-running team, and Davis' ability to be both a big-play threat and a force as an in-line blocker makes him one of Colin Kaepernick's greatest weapons.

Jeff Gross/Getty Images

Should the Maryland alumnus be unavailable for next week's game against the Arizona Cardinals, Harbaugh will likely put his faith in McDonald and the running back duo of Frank Gore and Carlos Hyde rather than roll with Carrier.

That said, Kaepernick appeared to trust Carrier on Sunday, targeting him early and often, so don't be surprised to see him get his snaps as well, particularly if McDonald continues to struggle in the passing game.

Carrier probably isn't worth a look if Davis' injury doesn't force him to miss too much time, but if your starter went down with an injury in Week 2 and the Niners confirm Davis will be out for a while, look for how Harbaugh handles Carrier's snap count in Week 3.

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