The New York Jets have overhauled their roster in recent years, aiming for a Super Bowl contender status. Key additions include Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, DJ Reed, Aaron Rodgers, Haason Reddick, and Davante Adams. However, after 10 games this season, the Jets sit at 3-7, making their playoff chances for 2024 slim. Following a Week 5 coaching change, the team is two games behind an AFC Wild Card spot, with three other teams standing in their way.
With quarterback Aaron Rodgers (40) nearing the end of his career and the team facing salary cap constraints, the Jets are in win-now mode. However, looking ahead to 2025, keeping all their top players may prove difficult. ESPN suggests that newly acquired star Davante Adams could be one of the players on his way out after next season.
The Jets traded for Adams on October 15 to strengthen their receiving corps alongside Rodgers. But Adams’ hefty contract could make him a financial liability. In 2025 and 2026, Adams is slated to earn $36.25 million in salary and bonuses, none of which is guaranteed. ESPN’s Dan Graziano points out that it’s unlikely the Jets or any other team would pay him that amount at ages 32 and 33. The Jets restructured Adams’ deal when they traded for him, which would result in a roughly $8.4 million dead-cap charge if they cut him in 2025.
While Graziano doesn’t rule out the possibility of a new deal for Adams, he emphasizes that any return would likely involve significant restructuring of his contract. This flexibility could allow the Jets to move on without substantial financial fallout. Graziano also notes the uncertainty surrounding the Jets’ future, including questions about the ownership, coaching staff, and quarterback situation. Owner Woody Johnson is already set to hire a new head coach, with more changes possibly on the horizon.
In short, while it’s too early to predict Adams’ future with the Jets, the prospect of him earning $36.25 million next year seems unlikely. Meanwhile, the Jets aim to stay in playoff contention, with their next game against the Indianapolis Colts, set for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.
