New Dynamic Duo?: Adams And Garoppolo Must Build Chemistry

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With the arrival of Jimmy Garoppolo, Davante Adams will need to connect with his third quarterback in as many seasons. This will serve as his strictest test.

When the Las Vegas Raiders indicated they would be moving on from their nine-year starting quarterback in Derek Carr, it was also made known that superstar wide receiver Davante Adams would have weighted influence regarding his former college teammate’s replacement. Since that statement, other than an aggressively frustrated tweet sent by Adams, mum has been the word regarding Adams’ involvement in the Raiders’ signing of Jimmy Garoppolo. Adams made a killing in the Silver and Black with Carr under center, as the two frequently on deep throws, leaving defenders in the dust. With Garoppolo’s ideal depth of target being a bit shorter than Carr’s, Adams may find himself on the receiving end of tackles in the middle of the field instead of catches ending near the sideline or in the end zone.

All Eyes On Him

Superstars in the NFL not only garner attention from the opposition but from their own team as well. Typically, a quarterback will have the team built around their playstyle, as they tend to act as the straw that stirs the proverbial drink. However, it is safe to say Adams outshines Garoppolo, and his career numbers clearly back that up. But, it can be difficult to mold an offense around a receiver (or position group) when the player throwing the ball appears relatively unmalleable in his playstyle. With the draft closing in, it would not be concerning to receive some sort of positive feedback regarding the pair’s relationship, especially considering Adams initially came to the Raiders to play with Carr. Considering the Raiders’ reticent offseason plans, it would not come as a massive surprise if the team, and players, accept that there may not be a fit for the two.

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Alternatively, Adams has made a name for himself due to his elite route running. If getting banged up is a major concern, the Raiders should be able to work this into their game plan. But, if Adams is prepared for a bit more wear and tear in 2023, he and Hunter Renfrow could open up zone defenses with their footwork alone. The 2022 season proved that Adams still has all the ability he showcased in Green Bay, but his reasons for staying with Las Vegas are not entirely clear. Yes, he did receive a substantial contract from the team, but there are not many others that would turn their nose at a sizeable cap hit due to his talent. His original quarterback has departed, while burning the bridge with the front office behind him, so what is keeping Davante in Las Vegas?

Faith In Offensive Scheme

Perhaps he sees something many do not in Josh McDaniels. Or, maybe he is more excited to play with Garoppolo than previously eluded to. However, with a handful of players starting to make waves by requesting trades, it is a good sign that he hasn’t made a similar overture. From an influence, or “shot-calling power”, standpoint, the Raiders, and Garoppolo are in lockstep. Yet,  Adams has the power to request out and flip a significant part of the offense on its head. Moving forward, it certainly would not hurt to keep the future Hall of Famer content.