It’s no secret that Davante Adams is unhappy with the Las Vegas Raiders, and the cracks are widening as the NFL trade deadline looms. After a turbulent season that saw a shakeup in the Raiders’ front office and an underwhelming quarterback situation, Adams has made it clear: he wants out. The Pro Bowl receiver is seeking a fresh start, but he has one condition-he wants to reunite with his former quarterbacks.
While Adams’s desire to link up with either Aaron Rodgers at the New York Jets or Derek Carr at the New Orleans Saints is well-documented, the market for his services is much broader. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills are two other elite teams monitoring the situation closely, adding more intrigue to the sweepstakes.
The New York Jets are at the top of Adams’s wish list, with Rodgers playing a major role in that preference. The two shared years of on-field chemistry in Green Bay, and Adams has publicly stated his admiration for the future Hall of Fame quarterback. Yet, despite Rodgers’ public endorsement of bringing his former favorite target to New York, the Jets have been cautious. Rodgers’ season-ending injury has complicated matters, and New York hasn’t rushed into making an aggressive move.
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints have been the most active team in pursuing a trade. Adams thrived under Derek Carr when the duo played together in Las Vegas, and a reunion in New Orleans could provide the spark the Saints’ offense needs. Carr’s relationship with Adams, combined with the Saints’ push for postseason contention, makes them a serious player in the race.
But here’s where it gets interesting-while Adams has his sights set on former quarterbacks, the Pittsburgh Steelers are making an aggressive push. After missing out on Brandon Aiyuk over the summer, the Steelers are eager to land a big-name receiver. Reports indicate that Pittsburgh is willing to offer a second-round pick and a “significant player” in exchange for Adams, potentially giving the Raiders an offer they can’t refuse.
Buffalo Bills could be late contender in Davante Adams trade as Raiders weigh offers
The Buffalo Bills are also keeping a close eye on the situation. While Buffalo hasn’t been as aggressive as New Orleans or Pittsburgh, they’re a team that could enter the mix late if Adams remains on the market. Adding a playmaker of Adams’s caliber to pair with Josh Allen would make the Bills an even more formidable contender in the AFC.
As trade talks swirl, Adams’s health is a key factor. Sources close to the situation have confirmed that Adams should be healthy enough to play as early as next week, making him an even more attractive trade target. The Raiders, who have struggled to find consistency on offense, are looking for a package that includes both draft picks and an impactful player.
The question now is whether the Raiders will cater to Adams’s preference or accept the best available offer, regardless of his desire to reunite with Rodgers or Carr. With the trade deadline fast approaching, the clock is ticking for all teams involved.
While the Jets and Saints remain frontrunners due to their quarterback connections, don’t count out the Steelers or Bills just yet. Both teams have the assets to make a compelling offer and are eyeing a deep playoff run, which could sway Adams’s decision if he’s open to new possibilities.
As of now, it’s a waiting game. Adams has made his wishes known, but the final decision rests with the Raiders’ front office. Will they honor the wide receiver’s request to play with a familiar face, or will they take the best deal on the table?