"A year ago, 49ers tight end Vernon Davis was ordered off the field for being a knucklehead. Thursday, he was awarded the team's highest honor.

Davis won the Len Eshmont Award, following in the footsteps of players such as Bryant Young, Jerry Rice and Y.A. Tittle.

Since 1957, the award has gone annually to the player "who best exemplifies the inspirational and courageous play," according to the 49ers. The Eshmont, voted on by players, headlined the list of award announcements Thursday.

All of the team's winners will be honored Sunday at Candlestick Park when the 49ers face the Detroit Lions.

Last season, Davis seemed more likely to win an Emmy than an award for leadership. The tempestuous tight end was known for his fights in practice and impulsive behavior. But he changed his approach under disciplinarian coach Mike Singletary, who demanded that Davis grow up. In the most memorable dust-up, Singletary banished Davis to the locker room after he drew a senseless personal-foul penalty against the Seattle Seahawks on Oct. 26, 2008.

The transformation looks complete. Davis credits his coach for making him a new man.

"He's always getting on me for everything," he said earlier this season. "But I think Singletary is always right. That's why I trust him. I'm just grateful that I have somebody around to push me." "