SAN DIEGO -- Buster Davis has been catching passes virtually nonstop. He's been Philip Rivers' favorite target during the first three days of training camp, and has hauled in most everything thrown his way.
The Chargers expected such production when they drafted him No. 30 overall in 2007, on game days as opposed to a portion of camp reserved by rookies and select veterans.
Thanks to a sophomore season marred by injury, that hasn't been the case. He has just 24 receptions for 247 yards and a touchdown over two seasons, stats that evoke the word "bust" among Chargers faithful.
"They drafted me in the first round for a reason," Davis said after Wednesday's practice. "I have the ability to be a productive receiver in this league. I've had some setbacks, but it's time to step up, make plays and be accountable."
The Chargers' coaching staff believes judgment on Davis should be reserved, especially after a serious groin injury robbed his effectiveness and required midseason surgery. Davis put maximum effort into his recovery, claims to be in the best shape of his life and has been impressive early in camp in terms of route running and secure hands.
"Buster always looks great," Chargers coach Norv Turner said. "We obviously know what the issue is, that he's had a tough time with some physical things. Sometimes that's luck, but he's outstanding. He's had a good offseason and looks good running routes. We want him out here early to get into the flow of things, and if he stays healthy, Buster's going to help us."
The first order of business is reintroducing himself to Rivers on the field, rebuilding chemistry lost while sidelined most of last season.
"It's been good for me to get back into the mix and get a ton of reps before the other guys get here," Davis said. "It's important that I get back in the flow."
Davis was out of it quickly, dealing with a groin problem during last year's training camp that got worse during the season and eventually sent him to injured reserve in Week 10.
"I don't think people realize how bad I was hurt," Davis said. "I had a serious groin injury that I tried to play through, but about Week 8 or 9 I realized I couldn't go anymore. I am a tough player. I know how to fight through pain. It's just unfortunate that I had to have surgery during the season."
Davis dealt with injuries in the past. He struggled with a groin problem while at LSU and was banged up at times during his rookie year, when he had 20 catches for 188 yards. Davis says he's healthy for the first time in a full year, and will do everything possible to stay that way.
"I've been seeking advice from different doctors and trainers and learning how to train, how to do the small things to preserve my career and preserve my body," Davis said.
He knows that's the only way he'll stay productive and quiet his detractors, whose dissent might crescendo if promise again goes unfulfilled. David insist he doesn't listen to the criticism, and instead finds motivation from within.
"Whether I got hurt last year or not, whether I was a No. 1 guy or not, I feel I have something to prove every day," Davis said. "That's the only way you're going to get better. I have a chip on my shoulder, and it motivates me. Hopefully all this hard work will pay off on Sundays."
Contact staff writer Scott Bair at (760) 739-6642.
