Aaron Rodgers can hardly contain his excitement about reuniting with former Green Bay Packers teammate Davante Adams. During his weekly appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday, the Jets quarterback was all smiles as he discussed the blockbuster trade that brought the star wide receiver to New York.
“Obviously really excited,” Rodgers said enthusiastically. “Davante is a phenomenal player and a dear friend.” The excitement was clear as Rodgers spoke about their strong connection, built over eight seasons together in Green Bay, where they formed one of the NFL’s most dynamic quarterback-receiver duos.
Rodgers recalled how he found out about the trade, admitting he was frustrated on his drive home after the Jets’ Monday night loss to the Buffalo Bills. He then noticed missed calls and texts from Adams. Once he connected with his longtime friend and teammate, the news was confirmed.
Adams made a surprise appearance on the Pat McAfee Show alongside Rodgers, jumping into the camera shot. “We’re back, man,” Adams said with a big grin. “Should be able to pick up where we left off, that’s the idea.” The two shared a moment of excitement over their upcoming reunion on the field.
RELATED: Davante Adams’ Cryptic Instagram Story Sparks Buzz After Blockbuster Trade to New York Jets
Adams had requested a trade from the Las Vegas Raiders earlier this month, and the Jets quickly pounced on the opportunity. The Raiders will receive a conditional third-round pick, which could escalate to a second-rounder based on performance.
The Jets also assume the remainder of Adams’ hefty contract, which includes $12.1 million in salary for the rest of this season and a potential $35.6 million over the next two years, although that portion is not guaranteed.
Jets owner Woody Johnson spoke openly about the trade at the league meeting in Atlanta on Tuesday, expressing his confidence that Adams will be a game-changer for the team. Johnson admitted that the team’s crushing 23-20 loss to the Bills on Monday night pushed him to make the deal, but reports indicate the trade was already in motion before the game.
“Status quo is killer. You have to go with your instinct and build a culture,” Johnson said. “He’ll open everything up.” Johnson also emphasized his commitment to turning the Jets’ season around, saying, “In my position, I have to make the decisions that are best for the team. I am doing absolutely everything I can to win.”
Adams wasted no time getting involved, reportedly taking a red-eye flight to New Jersey and arriving at the Jets’ facility early Tuesday morning. The trade is still pending a physical, as Adams has been dealing with a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined for the Raiders’ last three games. Assuming he passes, he’ll be ready to join Rodgers on the field soon.
This trade comes at a pivotal time for the Jets, who have struggled with a 2-4 start to the season. The front office already made waves by firing head coach Robert Saleh last week, naming defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich as the interim head coach.
Saleh’s firing marked the first in-season coaching change during Johnson’s 25-year ownership of the team, a sign of the urgency within the organization to shift the team’s direction.
The pressure is on, but Johnson is optimistic that Adams’ arrival will spark a turnaround. The Jets will face the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2) in Week 7 on Sunday Night Football, and all eyes will be on the Rodgers-Adams reunion as the team looks to salvage its season.
With Rodgers and Adams back together, Jets fans have reason to hope for a revival of the magic they shared in Green Bay. Now, the question is whether their chemistry can help steer the Jets back on course and into playoff contention.
