Tight end Vernon Davis’ brother, Vontae Davis, is currently a...

Tight end Vernon Davis’ brother, Vontae Davis, is currently a cornerback for the Miami Dolphins. Credit: AP

Rex Ryan raised some eyebrows Wednesday -- particularly in New England -- when he named Vernon Davis the best tight end in the NFL.

During a conference call with Bay Area reporters, the Jets coach raved that the 4.3 (40-yard dash) speed of the 49ers tight end put him ahead of the pack ...including Bill Belichick’s own, Rob Gronkowski.

Naturally, the Jets coach was asked Thursday to explain him comments.

And naturally, Ryan couldn't help but provide some comic relief.

“Because you know I had to get a shot in at a Patriot. Of course,” he said with a smile. “Vernon Davis is the No. 1 tight end in the league, this week. And when we play Gronkowski, Gronkowski will be. You know how that works by now. No doubt about that.” 

In 2011, Gronkowski finished first among tight ends in receiving yards (1,327), followed by New Orleans' Jimmy Graham (1,310) and Jason Witten (942) of the Cowboys. Dustin Keller had the sixth-most (815) and Davis (792) was ninth.

This season, however, Davis has 13 receptions for 169 yards and Gronkowski has 14 catches for 156.

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME