Are Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams a package deal?
While many assume so, and unconfirmed reports seemed tilted that way, it may not be entirely the case.
Asked if he would consider staying with the Jets if Rodgers is not there in 2025, Adams responded, “Potentially. It just would have to depend on… everything.”
While that might sound like a media-trained non-answer, it may actually be an honest response. There are many factors that could influence Adams in one direction or another, some of which Adams alluded to.
Start with the fact that Adams is under contract for 2025. Although his salary would be an untenable $35.64 million, the fact is that he does not have complete autonomy over where he will be next season. He may prefer to stay with the Jets over a potential trade destination.
Additionally, where Adams goes next may depend on whether Rodgers retires or not. If Rodgers is out of the league, that might significantly decrease Adams’ preference for one destination over another. If Rodgers signs elsewhere, though, Adams would be far more likely to want to follow him.
If Rodgers does retire, it may just come down to money for Adams. It is highly unlikely that any team would pay Adams $35.64 million in 2025. He is still a very good player, but he is no longer an elite receiver. The Jets would have the first negotiating position with Adams because they have him under contract. It is certainly possible that they could find common ground with him on a reworked deal.
There are endless other factors, as well. Who will the Jets’ new general manager and head coach be? If not Rodgers, who will their quarterback be? What other accompanying moves will they make this offseason?
Perhaps Adams was just giving a diplomatic non-answer, knowing full well that he has no intention of returning to the Jets. That is a distinct possibility. But there’s also a plausible scenario in which “potentially” was a serious answer, and his decision really would depend on “everything.”
