Davante Adams finally saw his long-desired reunion with quarterback Aaron Rodgers become a reality as he was traded to the New York Jets. This move, which came at a crucial time for both Adams and the Jets, gives him a new opportunity to influence the game in the way he envisions. On Wednesday, he addressed reporters for the first time after the trade, shedding light on his departure from the Las Vegas Raiders and the expectations he has in his new role.
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Davante Adams discusses his decision to demand a trade from Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders agreed to trade their star wide receiver to the Jets in exchange for a conditional third-round pick, giving Adams a fresh start with Rodgers, his former Green Bay Packers teammate. Despite the fact that the Jets currently stand at a 2-4 record, Adams and Rodgers have been tasked with turning the season around and making a push for the playoffs. This midseason reunion offers hope for both the Jets and Adams, who is seeking to regain his dominant form.
Reflecting on his time with the Raiders, Adams explained what prompted his trade. He acknowledged that his departure from Las Vegas was misunderstood by many, including fans. Adams emphasized that his decision wasn’t based on chasing personal accolades, but rather on finding a situation where he could make a meaningful impact every time he stepped onto the field. He explained that he wanted to feel confident in his ability to change the outcome of a game without needing a perfect set of circumstances. In New York, Adams knows he will be Rodgers’ go-to receiver, particularly in critical moments, a factor that was missing during his time in Las Vegas.
“All the fans, everybody who’s associated with the Raiders, they see everything,” Adams told reporters. “They see ‘trade demand’ and they think it’s like, he wants out, he’s quitting on the team. When it’s more about just being able to feel like I can… I don’t want that helpless feeling when I’m on the field. Not every game is going to be a 100-yard game or 150, 200-yard game.
“But I want to feel like I can impact the game every time I touch the field. Having the confidence that I’ll be able to make some plays and change the game, if need be, versus getting out there on the field and feeling like we need too many things to go right in order for me to be successful. And when I say ‘me be successful,’ I don’t mean me going out and having an All-Pro year every time… Sometimes you’ve got to make it easier and get to a situation that allows you to be yourself.”
Interestingly, Adams did not mention the overall competitiveness of the team, which had been a widely speculated reason for his trade. While the Jets are not currently championship contenders, they have a more stable quarterback situation and a stronger roster than the Raiders. For Adams, the ability to influence the game and trust in his quarterback appear to be the primary reasons for the move.
In his new chapter with the Jets, Adams is optimistic about being put in a position where his play can directly contribute to the team’s success. As he reunites with Rodgers, the duo’s synergy will be key to helping the Jets fight for a spot in the playoffs.
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