After a tough Week 6 loss to the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets QB Aaron Rodgers finally has something to smile about: his former Green Bay Packers teammate and star wide receiver Davante Adams is back in his locker room. The reunion of the dynamic duo has Jets fans buzzing, and Rodgers believes that Adams’ return could be the game-changer the struggling 2-4 team desperately needs.
Rodgers didn’t hide his excitement about Adams joining the Jets, calling the addition “surreal” and reminiscing about their successful days in Green Bay. He recalled how Adams took his comments about fitness seriously, transforming from “fat to fit,” and is now poised to bring his exceptional skills to the Jets. But the big question remains: can Adams turn things around for a team plagued by inconsistency?
When asked about Adams’ potential impact, Rodgers was optimistic. “Yeah, I mean, he can do a lot of different things,” Rodgers said. “He can play all three positions: on the ball, receiver, off the ball, and slot. He’s got a high football IQ. I think he’s going to help.” Rodgers praised Adams for his versatility, noting that the veteran wideout’s ability to master multiple positions will be a huge asset to the Jets’ offensive lineup.
Rodgers also sees Adams as a valuable mentor to the younger players on the team, who could benefit from his experience and work ethic. “I think he can help teach the young guys who are willing and eager to listen because he’s a master of route running and releases,” Rodgers said, adding that Adams’ attention to detail could inspire the team’s younger talent.
The chemistry between Rodgers and Adams is undeniable. The two shared a deep bond on the field during their time with the Packers, and their stats back it up. In 108 games with Rodgers, Adams hauled in 622 catches for 7,590 yards and scored 69 touchdowns. Rodgers, who posted a 103.5 passer rating when targeting Adams, threw for 28,368 yards and 237 touchdowns during their time together.
While Rodgers looks forward to rekindling his on-field connection with Adams, the veteran quarterback isn’t shy about addressing the Jets’ recent struggles. After the 20-23 loss to the Buffalo Bills, Rodgers pointed out several issues that cost the team the game, particularly a costly mistake by wide receiver Mike Williams.
Rodgers described a critical third-and-16 play, explaining that Williams’ misstep led to a devastating interception by Buffalo’s Taron Johnson. “It’s two vertical [routes],” Rodgers said. “Allen [Lazard] is down the seam and Mike is down the red line. I’m throwing a no-look to the red line, but [Williams] is running an in-breaker. He’s got to be on the red line. It’s the little things every single time.”
Williams’ struggles this season extend beyond that single mistake. In the first six games of 2024, he has failed to score a single touchdown, managing just 10 receptions for 145 yards, with his longest catch being only 22 yards.
As the Jets look to recover from their slow start, all eyes will be on the reunited duo of Rodgers and Adams. Will Adams bring the spark the Jets need to turn their season around? With the chemistry between them and Adams’ undeniable talent, the Jets have reason to be hopeful, but the team will need to address its other shortcomings to make a serious playoff push.
