Well it finally happened. Las Vegas sent Davante Adams to the New York Jets in exchange for a conditional pick in next year’s draft.
Let’s see how this works for everyone involved.
Las Vegas:
What they are getting:
A conditional 3rd round pick that could be a 2nd round pick if Adams is voted 1st or 2nd team all-pro, or if he’s on the active roster for the AFC Championship game. More than likely it will remain a 3rd round pick.
But I think the other thing they are getting is his contract off the books. His contract had no guaranteed money after this year, but the number jumps significantly. They would have had to redo his contract at the end of the year or cut him for no compensation. This way, they get out of the money and get a little help in the draft next year.
What they gave up:
Adams has been one of the best wide receivers in the league over the past decade. Since the Raiders shipped off Carr, he’s been a shell of his former production. Whether it’s scheme or quarterback play, Adams has not produced much on the field for the Raiders in the past 20 games.
Grade: B-
Reports were saying that a fourth round pick was the likely value, or taking on some of the money owed. Getting a conditional pick and not having to pay the contract are wins, but could they have had more at the beginning of the season?
New York:
What they are getting:
Davante Adams is a talented receiver, but for the purposes of this trade, the Jets are getting a player Aaron Rodgers trusts. Rodgers has been outspoken that the receivers he’s been working with are not in synch with the offensive scheme. Adams has years of experience in the system and a great rapport with Rodgers. Garrett Wilson might be the more explosive receiver between the two, but Adams will be the go-to target that defenses will have to scheme for.
What they gave up:
A conditional pick, along with the salary of Adams might have been a little steep. This is a team that is obviously in win now mode. Financially, they can afford to make this deal. But in terms of the long view, this appears to be another attempt at making Rodgers happy rather than building a team that can compete at a high level for the next four to five years.
Grade: C
After losing to the Bills on Monday night, they had to do something. With a 2-4 record and an unhappy quarterback, this team was staring down a losing record for the year. With Adams, they have a shot at becoming more efficient on offense and making a run for the playoffs. At the very least, they have put Rodgers on notice – no more excuses, it’s time to win games.
Davante Adams:
What he’s getting:
A 2-4 team in the AFC. A coaching staff in turmoil, with the demotion of the offensive coordinator coming right after the firing of the head coach.
What he gave up:
A 2-4 team in the AFC. A coaching staff in turmoil, with the demotion of the offensive coordinator eminent.
Grade: D+
Rodgers hasn’t been a top ten quarterback in this league for the past three years. In fact, Minshew had a better quarterback rating than Rodgers when he got benched. The Jets probably have more talent on their team, but the records are identical. Adams likely won’t get a contract extension from the Jets either, so he’ll have to take a steep discount for his next team. If they don’t win the Super Bowl this year, then what was this all for anyway?