The New York Jets are facing a challenging decision regarding the future of Davante Adams, with general manager Darren Mougey at the helm. The 32-year-old wide receiver was brought in by the Jets in October 2024 with high hopes of reuniting him with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, with changes in the quarterback position looming and Adams’ hefty cap hits of $38.3 million in the years 2025 and 2026, the Jets are now looking to swiftly navigate their way forward.
Reports have emerged indicating that the Jets have initiated discussions with Adams about potentially exploring his trade value. In the event that a suitable trade does not materialize, the team is anticipated to release the seasoned wide receiver as part of a broader strategy to overhaul their offense. Despite missing three games during the 2024 season, Adams managed to impress with 85 receptions for 1,063 yards and eight touchdowns playing for both the Las Vegas Raiders and the Jets.
In the event of a trade occurring before June 1, the Jets would incur a dead cap hit of $8.36 million in 2025. However, the move would result in significant cap savings of $29.9 million, providing the team with financial flexibility for future endeavors. While the allure of reuniting with Rodgers in Green Bay may be enticing should Adams become a free agent, voices within the Packers organization have advocated for his return. Running back Josh Jacobs and safety Xavier McKinney, who joined the Packers subsequent to Adams’ tenure with the Raiders, have expressed their desire to see Adams back in Green Bay.
Adams inked a lucrative five-year, $141.25 million contract with the Raiders in 2022, which now poses a dilemma for Mougey. The Jets must weigh the option of whether any team would be willing to absorb the remaining $72.5 million over two years on Adams’ contract. The Pittsburgh Steelers showed interest in veteran wide receivers last year, but aside from acquiring former Los Angeles Chargers first-round pick Mike Williams just before the trade deadline, they were unable to address their needs.
Mougey, whose prior role was as assistant general manager of the Denver Broncos, might find the Broncos intrigued by the prospect of adding a seasoned number one receiver like Adams to complement Courtland Sutton in the receiving corps.
