The New York Jets have officially parted ways with wide receiver Davante Adams, just three weeks after releasing quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Adams, a longtime favorite target of Rodgers from their Green Bay Packers days, had joined the Jets last season in an attempt to rekindle their chemistry.
However, the move did not yield the expected results, and the team has now decided to move on. Alongside Adams, wide receiver Allen Lazard has been given permission to seek a trade, with his release also likely if no deal is reached.
Jets Gain Cap Flexibility by Cutting Adams, Dismantling Rodgers-Era Roster Moves
Adams’ departure was primarily a financial decision. His contract, inherited from the Las Vegas Raiders, carried a massive $38.3 million cap hit for 2025, the highest among all wide receivers. By cutting him, the Jets saved $29.9 million in cap space, giving them much-needed flexibility to pursue free agents.
However, the team will still absorb an $8.4 million dead cap charge. Given the hefty contract, the Jets were unable to trade Adams, leaving them with little choice but to release him.
Davante Adams (NFL)The Jets’ aggressive approach to surrounding Rodgers with familiar weapons has now been fully dismantled. The team had previously signed Lazard, acquired Adams, and even brought in veteran receiver Randall Cobb, all in an effort to accommodate their star quarterback.
However, with Rodgers gone, the organization—under new head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey—is making sweeping changes. Offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, another close Rodgers ally, has also been let go, further signaling a shift in direction.
Wilson Takes Over as WR1, But Jets Face Depth Concerns Moving Forward
Adams’ presence last season created an unusual dynamic within the Jets’ receiving corps. Although Garrett Wilson was expected to be the team’s top target, Adams quickly became Rodgers’ preferred option, leading to a disparity in targets—especially in the red zone.
Now, with Adams gone, Wilson will step into the unquestioned No. 1 role. However, the Jets’ receiving depth is now a major concern, with Xavier Gipson and Malachi Corley being the most notable remaining options.
The Jets’ decision to part ways with Adams and likely Lazard marks the end of an unsuccessful experiment. Originally intended to build around Rodgers, the team’s moves failed to produce a winning season, as the Jets finished with a disappointing 5-12 record.
With the roster undergoing a significant transformation, the focus now shifts to rebuilding a competitive team without the influence of the Rodgers era. Free agency and the draft will be critical in reshaping the offense moving forward.
