With the 2024 NFL regular season about to kick off, the Las Vegas Raiders are drawing significant attention, particularly due to the ongoing situation surrounding star wide receiver Davante Adams.
Adams has been at the center of trade speculation since last year, and if the Raiders start the season poorly, the trade rumors are likely to intensify as the November 5 deadline approaches. Although the New York Jets have frequently been mentioned as a potential destination for Adams due to his connection with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team has proposed an alternative scenario: a trade sending Adams to the Detroit Lions.
In Valentino’s proposal, the Raiders would receive a 2025 second-round pick and wide receiver Jameson Williams from the Lions.
Valentino points out that “While many people envision Adams joining the Jets, the idea of pairing him with Aaron Rodgers is appealing. However, the Detroit Lions are currently a standout team, and integrating Adams into their high-powered offense could be a better fit. Detroit should be eager to make this move, especially given their current WR2 situation isn’t quite up to Super Bowl standards.”
He adds, “Detroit’s financial situation can accommodate Adams’ $16 million base salary, and some minor adjustments could make the deal even more feasible. With no guarantees remaining beyond this season, a contract restructure could make it more favorable for the Lions.”
For the Raiders, this trade would clear $17.5 million from the 2024 cap and over $36 million in 2025 and 2026. Adding Jameson Williams, who was a high draft prospect, could be the key to making this deal work.
Williams, who was highly regarded in the 2022 NFL Draft after a standout junior year at Alabama with 1,572 yards and 15 touchdowns, has had a challenging start to his NFL career. An ACL tear during the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship caused him to miss much of his rookie season, and his debut year was marred by a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s gambling policy. He managed only 24 catches for 354 yards last season.
While Williams was known for his speed and explosiveness at Alabama, it remains uncertain whether he can fully regain that form post-injury. However, he has yet to have a full, uninterrupted NFL season. The potential for high upside remains, and the Raiders would also benefit from the additional second-round pick if Williams does not meet expectations.
The Raiders face considerable pressure to start the season strong. If they struggle early, they may need to make difficult decisions. Adams will be 32 this season, and committing $44.1 million in salary cap space to him next year could be a tough proposition for the team.
Whether the Raiders should opt for a younger roster and trade Adams will largely depend on their performance in the early season. If the team is underperforming, Adams might also push for a trade himself. The situation is one to keep an eye on as the season progresses and the trade deadline approaches.