Davante Adams Has Something to Prove in 2017

The emergence of Davante Adams was long awaited for. A promising rookie season shined a dim light on the second round pick in a crowded receiving core. Then, when Jordy Nelson was lost for 2015 that light got even brighter. An impressive offseason and raving from Aaron Rodgers only elevated expectations for Adams. Unfortunately, Adams fell short. He played in less snaps than his rookie season and caught only one touchdown. The following year Adams finally answered the call with 997 yards and 12 touchdowns. Despite a breakthrough year, he still has his work cut out for him as he is due for a new contract after 2017.

Even though Adams is expected to be paid big money he is not thinking about his next check quite yet. “That’s definitely not the type of focus you want to go into a season with,” Adams said.

Yes, the best thing for Adams to do is keep his nose to the ground. Consistency goes a long way for a receiver and after all he has only one ‘solid’ year under his belt.

“I feel like I’m really just scratching the surface right now,” Adams said during OTAs.

Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb are already eating up a combined $20 million a year, therefore money is somewhat tight in the receiver’s lounge. Can the Packers justify having three receivers consume close to $30 million annually? Not likely.

If Adams wants to remain a Packer it may ride on his ability to outplay Cobb. Cobb has not deserved the $40 million he is getting from his contract signed in 2015. In 2016, he caught just 60 balls for 610 yards and four touchdowns. Much less than Adams who is still on his rookie deal. If Cobb flops again and Adams takes another step forward, it may lead to Cobb’s release and a larger deal for Adams.

The market for receivers this past offseason was high as comparable receivers were paid around $10 million a year. Pierre Garcon and Alshon Jeffery were given $9.5 million annually. Kenny Britt earned $8.1 after accumulating 1,002 yards last season.

Adams could warrant the same, however he may not get it from Green Bay. The Packers may be willing to fork over close to $8 million a year, but probably not much more.

Right now, Adams needs to use his unwavering confidence to step up in the meeting rooms and display his knowledge. Polishing his relationship and chemistry with Rodgers will go a long way as he continues to emerge as one of his favorite targets on the outside. Focusing too much on what is out of his control will only do harm.

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