Next offseason, Green Bay Packers star-wideout Davante Adams will potentially be a free agent. Looking ahead a bit, Adams is excited about the possibility of joining the Las Vegas Raiders. Here’s some of what the All-Pro could potentially provide the Silver and Black.
The college connection
Working in the Raiders’ favor is the relationship between Derek Carr and Adams. Teammates at Fresno State, the two lit up the scoreboard. In their final season together in 2013, Adams recorded 131 catches, 1719 yards, and 24 touchdowns. For Carr, he had one of the best statistical seasons for a quarterback in college football history with 5,083 yards, 50 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. After both being selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL draft, the two remained close friends.
Since those college days, Carr and Adams have blossomed into franchise players on their respective teams. Carr owns almost every passing record in Raiders history. Adams is a prolific touchdown scorer in Green Bay and possibly the best wide receiver in the league. Needless to say, a reunion of the former Bulldogs is something that interests both parties.
“…I think it would unlock some things in both of us that people haven’t seen yet. I’m always open to that, and I will be recruiting very hard. When that time comes, that will be a full-court press.” These were the words used to describe his thoughts on the Adams situation. He also called him “the best receiver in the NFL.” When asked about the situation, the Packers star said “Obviously, I love Derek to death. We’ve got a great friendship and we still communicate really, really consistently. He’s one of my best friends. Obviously, it would be a dream to be able to play with him.” Were the Raiders able to reunite the two stars, this is what Adams could add.
A trusted target
It goes without saying, but Adams is a quarterbacks’ best friend. Oftentimes in Green Bay, it appears that Aaron Rodgers is only looking Adams’ way. This is often true. For Carr, Adams would make him as comfortable as he has ever been when combined with Darren Waller.
Derek Carr to Davante Adams at @FresnoStateFB was unfair 🚀
(via @CFB_History)
— PFF Draft (@PFF_College) June 30, 2021
These videos from their college days really display the trust the two have. Carr can simply throw the ball up and understand that not only will Adams be there, but he will often make the play. If this reminds you of the relationship he currently has with Waller, you would be correct. Giving Carr these two weapons would not only create one of the best-receiving duos in the league, but it would also put “4” in the best position to succeed.
As far as wide receivers are concerned, Carr has not fully trusted one in this way since Michael Crabtree was in Oakland. The two became known around the league for their perfectly executed fade routes.
As seen here, Carr simply throws it up for Crabtree to make a play on it. A perfect throw to a perfect spot and Crabtree gets in a great position to catch the ball. Carr and Adams ran this play at Fresno State as well, and Adams continues to run it in Green Bay.
With the connection that the pair already has, them connecting for huge plays often would not be surprising.
In addition to his pairing with Waller, Adams would have a hugely positive effect on Henry Ruggs III. Despite a disappointing rookie season, Ruggs does not lack talent and has the ability to become one of the more dynamic receivers in the entire league. Playing across from a tremendous talent such as Adams will only make things easier for the young wideout.
Can the Raiders make this happen?
Simply, it’s going to take a lot to make this happen. Yes, Adam’s contract will expire after the 2021 season but it is highly unlikely that the Packers allow him to test free agency. If Adams does decide to leave the Packers, he will almost certainly be Franchise Tagged. In this scenario, the Raiders would have to trade for him as the Packers will not allow him to leave without compensation. Predictably, this trade would include multiple high draft picks, and likely several first-rounders.
Whatever the cost may be, the Raiders should consider it. With their poor use of draft selections overall, Las Vegas will likely not acquire a player the caliber of Davante Adams. One thing is for sure: Derek Carr, Davante Adams, and all of the Raiders fans are on board with this acquisition.
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*Top Photo: Associated Press/Morry Gash