By Ross Jackson
It seems that the injury to starting quarterback Derek Carr hasn’t changed the mind of Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams.
As the league’s Nov. 5 trade deadline approaches, Adams’s interest in the Saints has been well documented. But on Monday night, the Saints lost their biggest draw for Adams for “multiple games” as Derek Carr recovers from his oblique injury.
Despite that, NFL teams still consider the Saints as a favorite to land the three-time All-Pro wideout (ESPN+ required), Per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
“Teams I’ve talked to believe the Saints might just be the favorite,” Fowler wrote. “Because they are on Adams’ short list of preferred destinations and are willing to be aggressive. Yes, the Jets are involved. But the Raiders probably will go with the best package.”
We highlighted the Saints’ aggressive approach last week, and it does not look like they are slowing that strategy just yet.
Ultimately, Adams’s preferences will only go so far. The right blend of approach for any team is going to be acting as one that is willing to cough up the expected trade value. Though reports also suggest that the Raiders may not get exactly what it is that they are looking for.
The Raiders are reportedly asking for a second-round pick and more to get the deal done. Many teams do not seem to be willing to pay that. But if New Orleans is willing to give up more than anyone else, even short of that requested second rounder, they could still come out on top and provide Adams with a landing spot he would want with his old quarterback.
With each week that goes on, the Raiders have to pay more and more of Adams’ game checks. They want to be alleviated of that responsibility. They will eventually have to choose a suitor that is offering the most. New Orleans could put themselves in the perfect position thanks to the triumvirate of aggressiveness, preference and timeliness.
