The Green Bay Packers are locking up one of their best young players. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Davante Adams is landing a long-term extension (four or five years) worth roughly $14 million per season. This extension takes Adams, who was going to be a free agent, off the market. It also pays him like a top-five receiver in the NFL.
This is a smart move by general manager Ted Thompson. Adams has come on like rolling thunder the past two seasons with the Packers, catching 149 passes for 1,882 yards and 22 touchdowns, with 10-plus touchdowns both seasons. He has a natural affinity with Aaron Rodgers, who has started to go to Adams more than Jordy Nelson in the past couple of seasons (like this).
Speaking of Nelson, it’s highly likely he and/or Randall Cobb will be playing for another team next season. Nelson is signed through 2018, but the team has an out built into the contract, per Spotrac, that would save it well over $11 million if he is released. Cobb’s contract is built in such a way that, if he’s released, it’ll save the Packers over $12 million.
Obviously, the Packers cannot afford to keep all three receivers. Especially because of the other big-time needs on the roster, namely the offensive line and defensive secondary.