Jets agree to deal to acquire Davante Adams from the Raiders.
[Related: Bucky Brooks breaks down what Davante Adams brings to Jets]
In a significant move, the Jets are sending a conditional third-round pick in next year’s draft, which could escalate to a second-round selection, pending a physical examination. This information was shared by a source who spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity, as the teams have yet to officially announce the trade.
The NFL Network broke the news of the trade. Reports indicate that Adams took a red-eye flight to New York this morning and is currently undergoing a physical to finalize the transaction.
At 31 years old, Adams is set to significantly enhance a Jets offense that has struggled with consistency early in the season. As a three-time All-Pro, he joins Garrett Wilson, providing quarterback Aaron Rodgers with two elite wide receivers. This addition complements the existing roster that includes Mike Williams, Allen Lazard, and Xavier Gipson, along with tight end Tyler Conklin and running backs Breece Hall and Braelon Allen.
Adams had recently missed the Raiders’ last three games due to a hamstring injury and expressed a desire to leave Las Vegas, a request that was granted by the organization.
Now, he reunites with Rodgers, with whom he shared eight successful seasons in Green Bay, reigniting a partnership that once flourished.
This trade comes on the heels of a disappointing 23-20 loss to the Buffalo Bills, where Rodgers threw a Hail Mary just before halftime but was also intercepted during the Jets’ final drive for the second consecutive week. The game was marked by penalties and missed scoring opportunities.
Rodgers expressed his frustration after the game, stating, “I’m here to win those games, but we’ve got to be on our details. It’s little things every single time.”
This trade also marks the culmination of a chaotic week for the Jets. Following a loss to Minnesota in London, owner Woody Johnson dismissed head coach Robert Saleh. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich was named interim head coach, and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett was replaced by pass game coordinator Todd Downing.
The Jets’ decision to acquire Adams was anticipated, given his strained relationship with the Raiders and the strong connection he shares with Rodgers.
In a recent appearance on the “Up & Adams Show,” he noted that he hadn’t heard from Raiders coach Antonio Pierce since the coach liked a social media post suggesting a potential trade.
Despite nearing 32 years old, Adams remains one of the NFL’s premier receivers, known for his precise route running and ability to catch passes even under tight coverage. Last season, he recorded 103 receptions for 1,144 yards and eight touchdowns, achieving over 1,000 yards for the fifth time in six years.
This season, he has tallied 18 catches for 209 yards and one touchdown in three games.
Rodgers has completed 61.8% of his passes, accumulating 1,387 yards, nine touchdowns, and five interceptions over the first six games. The Jets currently rank 22nd in total offense and 23rd in scoring, holding a 2-4 record after their recent loss to the Bills.
The Jets’ struggles led to the firing of head coach Robert Saleh after their Week 5 defeat, prompting the decision to elevate Todd Downing to play-caller in hopes of revitalizing their offense.
Adams, who will turn 32 in December, has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury, which was previously deemed week-to-week. This may allow him to make his debut with the Jets this weekend. He had already made 18 receptions for 209 yards and one touchdown in the Raiders’ first three games.
Adams is under a five-year, $140 million contract with the Raiders, which still has two seasons remaining. However, his contract includes an out after this season, with no guaranteed money owed in the next two years.
The Raiders originally acquired Adams for a first-round pick and a second-round pick during the 2022 NFL Draft in March 2022.
