Packers could reportedly make huge Davante Adams contract offer

The Green Bay Packers still don’t know whether or not Aaron Rodgers will return for the 2021 NFL season. With the reigning NFL MVP’s future uncertain, it might not be long before the franchise shifts its focus to Davante Adams.

All of the spotlight in Green Bay this offseason centers on Rodgers, who is demanding a trade due to distrust of the organization. Efforts to sign the future Hall of Fame quarterback to an extension haven’t helped bridge the divide. As a result, with Rodgers seemingly committed to sitting out in 2021, the Packers are drawing closer to the Jordan Love era beginning.

The offensive line was expected to take a step back in 2021, with David Bakhtiari recovering from a torn ACL and All-Pro center Corey Linsley joining the Los Angeles Chargers. With uncertainty in the trenches, some around the league believe now might be the time to sign Adams to a contract extension.

NFL insider Jeremy Fowler shared on SportsCenter, via Bleacher Report, that some in the NFL wonder if the Packers will pivot from Rodgers to Adams. Green Bay’s star receiver is in the final year of his contract, and there’s a belief he could net between $25 million to $30 million per season in a new deal.

It certainly makes sense. Signing Adams to a long-term deal would ensure one of the NFL’s best receivers stays in town, providing an elite weapon for whoever starts at quarterback. If it serves as an olive branch to earn Rodgers’ trust, even better.

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Will Adams re-sign with the Packers

Fortunately for Green Bay, the Packers don’t have to worry about another star skipping practices. Adams already said he will report to training camp in July, refusing to risk paying back money he earned in fines. But that doesn’t mean he’ll re-sign with Green Bay.

Rodgers and Adams have a very close relationship, displaying rare chemistry for a quarterback and receiver. If the All-Pro passer isn’t staying with the Packers, there is very little reason for Adams not to consider his options outside of Wisconsin.

• Davante Adams stats (2020): 115 receptions, 1,374 receiving yards, 18 receiving touchdowns and 98.1 ypg

The 28-year-old receiver is in his prime and just earned a first-team All-Pro selection. Recognized as one of the most difficult players to defend in the NFL, Adams would be one of the best 2022 NFL free agents.

It’s important to note that Adams already expressed hesitation about sticking with the Packers. At the very least, it would be in his best long-term interest to explore the open market next offseason. But the Packers can prevent that by placing the franchise tag on him, a rare move for the organization.

DeAndre Hopkins is currently the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL, averaging $27.25 million per season. But he signed a shorter extension and he is the only player at his position averaging more than $22 million per year.

If the Packers are willing to offer Adams a four-year deal worth $100 million, it might change his mind about Green Bay. But with the rising NFL salary cap, it’s not hard to imagine him surpassing that offer in free agency.