The Las Vegas Raiders are fresh off a Monday Night Football victory vs. the Packers. Although things got shaky throughout the game, Josh McDaniels’ crew rallied as Jimmy Garoppolo did just enough on offense while the defense carried the team across the finish line. One player who didn’t have a major impact, at least not on the stat sheet, is star wideout Davante Adams.
Davante Adams Is The Straw That Stirs The Drink For Vegas
That being said, Adams still garnered considerable attention from the Green Bay defense. His presence allowed Jakobi Meyers to have his third 7+ catch showing on the year. Going further, the success of the passing attack gave Josh Jacobs a chance to build some momentum for the remainder of the campaign.
That showcases why trading Adams would be a shortsighted decision unless the perennial All-Pro forces his way out. While some see this as a distinct possibility, thanks to the former Packer airing his frustrations to the media, it is a long shot that a trade occurs during the season.
Through all the negativity and rumors, Adams has maintained his trademark professionalism. Sure, he wants the football more, plus he wants to win games — who doesn’t? But nothing Adams has said publicly indicates that he is positioning for a trade in the near future.
Jimmy Garoppolo Receives Praise From Adams
His comments regarding current Raiders starting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo help support this case. It is no secret the affinity Adams has for his former signal-callers — Aaron Rodgers and Derek Carr. But the 30-year-old pass catcher sent shockwaves around social media with his most recent statement in favor of Garoppolo (h/t ESPN’s Dan Graziano).
“Jimmy’s an easy guy to work with because he’s one of the best that I’ve been around at any position, let alone quarterback, of taking accountability.” Adams continued, “Not taking anything away from Derek [Carr] or Aaron [Rodgers], but Jimmy does a good job of not coming in and acting like he knows everything.”
“He’s open to suggestions and me talking through ways that I’ve done in the past,” Adams finished his thought. Was this a backhanded shot at his previous quarterback situations? Or does Adams really love Garoppolo that much? In all likelihood, it was probably a little bit of both.
There is a clear divide between how Raider Nation feels about Jimmy G and how the Raiders’ locker room feels. Talent-wise, Garoppolo leaves much to be desired. But as a leader? No teammate has ever said anything negative about his leadership or willingness to just be “one of the guys.” Even if it can come off as phony in the media, Garoppolo’s ability to resonate with teammates is why he’s had such a long career.
Will The Raiders Keep Adams In 2024? Can We Put The Trade Rumors To Bed?
On the flip side of the coin… what exactly do we expect his teammates to say? It’s not often a locker room revolts against a quarterback, especially a wide receiver whose success relies upon Garoppolo feeding them the ball.
What say you, Raiders fans? Does Davante Adams’ recent comment shut down any trade rumors regarding his unhappiness in Vegas? Or is it merely a throwaway quote that is nothing more than lip service from Adams to Garoppolo?
*Top Photo: David Zalubowski/AP