One day after acquiring star wide receiver Davante Adams from the Las Vegas Raiders, the New York Jets have confirmed their expectation for him to be on the field during Week 7. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich addressed the media on Wednesday, indicating that Adams is anticipated to play against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Sunday Night Football.
Following a missed opportunity against the Buffalo Bills in their last game, the Jets were quick to trade for Adams, sending a conditional third-round pick for 2025 to Las Vegas. There was some uncertainty regarding when the renowned wideout would be able to debut after he missed the previous three weeks due to a hamstring injury. However, with indications that Adams will play immediately, attention now shifts to his ability to master the team's playbook swiftly.
Adams is likely to find the transition smoother thanks to familiar elements from his tenure with the Green Bay Packers. His connection with quarterback Aaron Rodgers is noteworthy, as Rodgers serves as a key figure in the Jets' offensive strategies. Additionally, Nathaniel Hackett, the Jets’ offensive coordinator, previously worked with the Packers from 2019 to 2021. It is reasonable to expect that Todd Downing, the new offensive play-caller, will seek insight from both Rodgers and Adams regarding their preferences and successful plays from the past to facilitate a seamless integration. Adams will face a formidable test against a Steelers defense known for its effectiveness, currently ranking second in the NFL in points allowed per game, led by the impactful pass-rush duo of T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward, who together have accrued 20 quarterback hits and 7.5 sacks. Moreover, Adams should have an understanding of the Steelers' defense, having been with the Raiders during their matchup against Pittsburgh last week. The Jets and Raiders are set to clash at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday at 8:20 p.m. ET.