The New York Jets are set to finalize a high-profile trade for star wide receiver Davante Adams, as they look to salvage their season and break a 50-year Super Bowl drought, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
The Las Vegas Raiders will receive a conditional third-round draft pick, which could escalate to a second-round selection depending on Adams’ performance this season or his availability for the AFC Championship Game or Super Bowl. Sources disclosed that Adams arrived in New Jersey early Tuesday morning, as the deal was nearly complete, and he is currently undergoing a physical to finalize the transaction.
The Jets will also be taking on the remainder of Adams’ salary, which amounts to approximately $11.59 million for the current season. While Adams is under contract through 2026, his annual salary is poised to increase significantly, reaching $36.25 million in those later years. The Raiders will incur a dead cap charge of $13.67 million in 2024 and $15.7 million in 2025.
This trade will reunite Adams with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, aiming to recreate their successful partnership previously seen at the Green Bay Packers. During their time together, Adams was Rodgers’ primary target, making 615 catches for over 7,500 yards and 68 touchdowns, making them one of the most efficient duos in NFL history.
Adams, set to turn 32 this December, is a six-time Pro Bowl selection who thrived during his years with Rodgers. The Jets have struggled this season, currently sitting at 2-4 and facing a three-game losing streak, which heightened expectations for a swift turnaround following the acquisition of Rodgers.
The Jets’ front office, led by general manager Joe Douglas, has kept a keen eye on Adams since he expressed a desire to leave the Raiders. Although the Raiders initially rebuffed a trade inquiry during the 2023 deadline, Douglas did not lose interest and moved quickly to secure the deal this time.
The pressure is now on Douglas and interim coach Jeff Ulbrich, who stepped in after Robert Saleh was fired last week. The team has faced a playoff drought that extends back 13 seasons, the longest active streak in the NFL.
Adams will join a receiving group that features rising star Garrett Wilson and veterans Mike Williams and Allen Lazard, among others. Wilson is experiencing a strong stretch of play, notably connecting well with Rodgers after a shaky start to the season.
Adams previously played for the Raiders after being acquired in a major trade with the Packers in March 2022, but he had become dissatisfied under the current coaching staff and sought a move, ultimately choosing the Jets over other interested teams. In his short tenure with the Raiders, Adams achieved impressive numbers, earning All-Pro honors and consistently leading the team in receiving despite recent struggles with injuries.