The rumors surrounding a potential split between the Las Vegas Raiders and star wide receiver Davante Adams have captured the attention of NFL teams, including the New Orleans Saints. With Adams expressing a preference for a trade, there’s been significant speculation about which team could land the elite receiver. While the Saints could be an intriguing option, there are several factors to consider before any potential move is made.
Why the Saints Should Consider Davante Adams
Davante Adams is one of the most dominant receivers in the NFL, and any team looking to improve their offense would undoubtedly benefit from his services. For the Saints, reuniting Adams with his former quarterback Derek Carr could reignite the dynamic connection that made them successful with the Raiders. Adams has consistently proven himself as a top-tier talent with incredible route-running skills and elite hands, making him a valuable asset for any team.
Additionally, the Saints’ offense, while boasting playmakers like Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara, could benefit from another veteran presence. Adams’ ability to stretch the field and command double coverage could open up opportunities for others in the offense, creating a more balanced and potent attack.
The Financial Hurdles
However, acquiring Adams is not as simple as it seems. The financial implications of such a trade present a significant hurdle. According to Over The Cap, the price to trade for Adams would be approximately $13.5 million, which decreases by $968K each week he remains on the Raiders’ roster. While 11 teams have the cap space to absorb this, the Saints currently do not, with just over $3.26 million in cap space.
Further complicating matters are Adams’ future contract numbers. He carries a $44.1 million cap hit in 2025 and $45.1 million in 2026, though none of this is guaranteed. This makes acquiring Adams a short-term solution that could have long-term financial repercussions. The Saints would need to work through these financial challenges, possibly involving a Day 2/3 pick swap or similar deal to make the trade viable.
The Verdict: Is It Realistic?
Though the Saints could theoretically swing a trade for Adams, it seems unlikely given their current financial situation. While GM Mickey Loomis and the Saints front office are known for their creative cap management, Adams’ cost may still be too steep. The Saints have more pressing needs, particularly on defense and along the offensive line. Adding a high-cost wide receiver, even one as talented as Adams, might not be the smartest use of resources.
In conclusion, while Davante Adams would bring immediate firepower to the Saints’ offense and potentially reunite with Derek Carr, the financial obstacles and long-term cap implications make the trade unlikely. Still, in the NFL, surprises can happen, and if the Saints can find a way to create the necessary cap space, they shouldn’t be counted out entirely.
Key Takeaways:
- Adams’ Skill Set: Elite route-runner and reliable hands, perfect for a Saints offense that could use another dynamic weapon.
- Cap Space Issues: The Saints would need to clear over $10 million in cap space to afford Adams.
- Realistic Trade?: Unlikely, but not impossible with creative financial restructuring.
For Saints fans, the idea of Adams in black and gold is exciting, but it may just remain a dream due to the significant financial hurdles. However, if they pull off a trade, it would undeniably be a game-changer.