Vernon Davis Scores Touchdown And Breaks Down In Tears After His Grandad Passed Away

Washington Redskins tight end Vernon Davis couldn't hold back the tears after scoring a touchdown in their defeat at Philadelphia on Sunday.

The 35-year-old found the end zone in the first quarter and was overcome with emotion after losing his grandfather on Saturday night.

Davis was raised by his grandad and says he "showed me how to be a man" in an emotional Instagram post.

The NFL veteran wrote on social media: "Dad, pops, grandpa, my hero. You were all of the above. I will miss you truly.

"I wouldn't be who I am without you. My first 18 years of life you showed me how to be a man. Thank you for everything. Rest well. Love you."

Davis caught a pass from quarterback Case Keenum and hurdled a defender on the way to scoring a brilliant touchdown early in the 32-27 defeat.

But he admitted the touchdown felt rather hollow given his grandad Lynwood Smith's sad death.

He said: "Yeah I was just grateful when I scored that touchdown. I was grateful to contribute to the team. A lot of people asked me if I was going to be able to play today. Of course I'll be able to play.

"They probably didn't think I'd come out and be effective for the team as well, but it worked out.

"That whole play was everybody, but that play is going to have to be irrelevant to me because of what went on today."

Philadelphia came back from 17-0 down to beat Washington in their season opener at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday.

Carson Wentz threw for 313 yards and three touchdowns as Philly fought back to beat their NFC East rivals.