Jets release star WR Davante Adams, Packers, 49ers & Chargers touted as landing Spots

On Tuesday, the New York Jets officially parted ways with three-time All-Pro Davante Adams, releasing him just five and a half months after acquiring him from the Las Vegas Raiders. This move paves the way for Adams to test free agency for the first time in his 12-year NFL career.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport was the first to report the Jets' decision to part ways with Adams and had previously mentioned that the team was fielding trade inquiries for the star receiver, drawing "some interest," but ultimately couldn't finalize a deal. He also noted that Adams "could land on the West Coast."

By cutting ties, the Jets will gain significant cap relief, with a pre-June 1 designation clearing $29.9 million in savings this season. New York initially acquired Adams from the Las Vegas Raiders in October, sending a conditional third-round pick in exchange for his contract.

Here's some of the quick reaction from around the NFL world:

Following his expected departure, veteran wideout Davante Adams will now weigh his options in free agency, assessing offers before deciding on his next destination. Having been dealt from the Las Vegas Raiders to the New York Jets midway through the 2024 campaign, Adams is now set to hit the open market for the first time in his career.

A return to the Packers would make sense beyond just nostalgia—though his eight-year stint in Wisconsin certainly adds to the appeal. The Packers are trending in the right direction with Jordan Love under center but lack a true elite receiver. Adams could fill that void while also providing a veteran presence in a young locker room.

If a reunion with Green Bay doesn't materialize, Adams would be a strong addition to the Los Angeles Chargers offense. Ladd McConkey emerged as a legitimate WR1 in his rookie year, racking up 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns, but Adams could be an ideal secondary target for Justin Herbert in a high-powered passing attack.

The San Francisco 49ers also present an intriguing landing spot. With Deebo Samuel traded to the Washington Commanders, the Niners could use another weapon in their aerial attack. Additionally, signing with San Francisco would bring Adams closer to his hometown of Palo Alto.

Wherever he lands, Adams will aim to maintain his high level of play. While he had some inconsistency last season, he still notched his fourth straight 1,000-yard campaign in 2024, adding eight touchdowns to his resume.

This move clears the way for Adams to sign with a new team when free agency begins next week. And as stated above, he will have no shortage of suitors in free agency.