Packer Fans; Don't Miss Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams Too Much
The Green Bay Jets — sorry, the New York Jets — traded for Davante Adams on Tuesday. Packers fans will once again get to witness two beloved legends reunite, just in a different shade of green. Watching Aaron Rodgers sling it to Davante Adams again will be a bit reminiscent, but let’s remember that this was the right move. While it’s likely that every coach and fan understands this subconsciously, putting it in writing never hurts.
The unforgettable Rodgers-Adams duo put up 622 receptions, 7,590 receiving yards, and 69 touchdowns — though that last number feels a bit cursed. The real curse might be that they never won a ring together, which definitely stings. Even with two of the league's top offensive talents, the Packers had to look ahead for the sake of their future. With both stars' big contracts approaching, there just wasn’t enough money to build a well-rounded team capable of making a Super Bowl run. No ring meant it was time to cut them loose, even if it hurt.
In 2022, Davante Adams was traded to Las Vegas, giving Raiders fans false hope that their organization was even a little good. Meanwhile, the Packers acquired draft picks that allowed them to secure Quay Walker and Kingsley Enagbare. Plus, Adams' large contract freed up money for other needs. While the Packers were willing to pay him, Adams wanted to move in a different direction. Whether it was due to Rodgers’ impending departure, his desire to establish his own identity, wanting to play with Derek Carr or his feelings about the contract offer, Adams didn't want to stick around for what he likely saw as a rebuild with the Packers. Hopefully, that brings some peace to fans.
In the 2023 Aaron Rodgers trade, the Packers received draft picks that allowed them to select Lukas Van Ness, Luke Musgrave, Anders Carlson, Edgerrin Cooper, Evan Williams, and Jacob Monk. Aside from Carlson, these players are young and important pieces for the future. The Jets got a pricey, vintage Aaron Rodgers, along with draft picks that helped them land Will McDonald, Jarrick Bernard-Converse, and Zack Kuntz. While Rodgers has shown he hasn’t slowed down and still has that pinpoint accuracy, the reality is he turns 41 this December. Keeping him around and paying him was never going to be a long-term solution. After all, the guy was born on the same day Michael Jackson’s "Thriller" music video was released. There’s nothing but love for what he did for the organization, but it was clear both sides were ready to part ways.
Not only have those trades helped build a strong defense with the draft picks Brian Gutekunst secured, but their offense is also in a better position — something not many teams could manage after losing players like Rodgers and Adams. The Packers have become a better team overall this year and for the years to come, all at a much cheaper price than it would take to struggle with a limited budget. After the Jets trade, their wide receiver room now sits at 13 among the most expensive in the league, paying a big chunk of change at $36.6 million this year. To give some perspective, the Packers are spending only $6.3 million on their wide receiver room, the lowest in the NFL. The Packers’ wide receivers have combined for 68 receptions, 1,013 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns. Meanwhile, for over $30 million more than the Packers, the Jets’ receiver corps has totaled 81 receptions, 924 receiving yards, and 8 touchdowns. The Packers' wide receivers have contributed to four wins and two losses, while the Jets' pricey wide receivers have helped the team achieve the same record — just with the wins and losses switched.
Green Bay is not an organization that dwells on nostalgia. They move forward in a way that makes a rebuild feel more like a reload, all without skipping a beat. Jordan Love has had his growing pains, but his throwing strength is too good to overlook. At 25 years old, he is the cornerstone of this franchise. Any NFL team will tell you that winning becomes much harder without a good quarterback. The Packers have gained key young defensive players and a franchise quarterback.
While watching Rodgers pass to Adams brings back fond memories, it’s important to remember that the Packers are in a better position now. When nostalgia creeps in, remind yourself that the Packers' future is bright. Letting go of the past and looking forward to the future is crucial. Rodgers and Adams were special and will continue to be this season, but the Packers organization is focused on long-term success.
