NFL insider addresses how Aaron Rodgers decision impacts Davante Adams

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has developed a strong connection with Davante Adams over the past several seasons. But with questions swirling about Rodgers’ future with the franchise this offseason, the dynamic duo is in danger of splitting up.

The Packers quarterback must make his decision before the 2022 season officially begins March 16. However, with Green Bay considering a franchise tag for Adams, for which the deadline is March 8, it is likely to come sooner.

In a recent TV appearance, ESPN insiders Dan Graziano and Jeff Saturday discussed how that affects Adams.

“I think they definitely need to know something by March 8, which is the last day they can designate a franchise player,” Graziano said. “With Davante Adams set for free agency, they’re gonna wanna know what they’re gonna do with Davante Adams. He’s going to want to know who the quarterback is gonna be if he’s gonna sign back there, or sign his franchise tender or hold out. That’s the key date. Realistically, they have to know in time to figure out what to do with Davante Adams.”

Davante Adams has been the top receiver for Aaron Rodgers for the past five seasons, in all of which he earned Pro Bowl appearances. He led the NFL in receiving yards per game (98.7) and receiving touchdowns (20) during the quarterback’s MVP season in 2020.

Although Rodgers is signed to Green Bay through the 2022 season, there are salary cap implications to consider. The Packers sit $44.8 million over their projected salary cap for the 2022 season, and that’s without Adams. The franchise tag for a receiver will be close to $20 million. Based on those numbers, Rodgers would need to take a significant pay cut to remain with the team.

The quarterback has previously said that, out of respect for Adams, he will make that decision before March 8. Saturday said on air that he believes the best choice for Rodgers, if he wants to win, is to stay put.

“If they’re gonna lay out this red carpet for you, take advantage of it,” Saturday said. “Get Davante signed up. Get your extension moved forward. Probably get a second receiver signed up. The team is loaded. They’re coached well and they’re an efficient organization. The whole cap thing will get worked out extremely quickly, so I wouldn’t worry about any of that part. But if you’re talking about Green Bay and the ability to win now, it’s as good a fit as you’re gonna get. Green Bay is telling you right now they don’t believe in Jordan Love. Because if they did, they would not be going all in for you. They’re telling you, ‘We’re gonna extend you. Let’s do the things we have to do to move forward together.'”

After a 13-4 finish this past season, Green Bay once again faced disappointment in the playoffs. The Packers lost in the divisional round of the playoffs to San Francisco despite receiving the NFC’s top seed and a first-round bye. They have not appeared in the Super Bowl since 2010, despite making four of the past eight NFC Championship games.

Rodgers expressed his displeasure with Packers management during last year’s offseason, though the relationship appeared to get better as the year went on. Whether that is enough to convince him to stay after another disappointing end to the year remains to be seen.