The NY Jets have long been connected to a possible Davante Adams trade, even dating back to this past season. From Adams' ties to Aaron Rodgers to his obvious frustrations in Las Vegas, it's almost felt inevitable at times that the two sides would eventually work out a deal.
But as Adams' frustrations have dissipated, so too have the odds of him being traded. That hasn't stopped Jets fans from trying to connect the dots, however.
With Garrett Wilson switching his jersey number to No. 5, eagle-eyed Jets fans on social media caught Adams liking a post about him potentially taking Wilson's old No. 17 on the Jets. That might be little more than playful social media banter, though.
Raiders players have gone to bat in recent weeks for interim head coach Antonio Pierce, who managed to completely change the vibe in Las Vegas. Adams himself has been very vocal about his support of Pierce.
On Saturday, reports emerged that Raiders star pass rusher Maxx Crosby will consider requesting a trade if his team does not hire Pierce to be their full-time head coach in 2024. That's a strong vote of confidence from an important player in the organization.
A Davante Adams trade seems unlikely if Antonio Pierce is hired
And that's what makes an Adams trade increasingly unlikely. Adams wanted out when Josh McDaniels was running the show, but morale in that Raiders locker room has never been higher under Pierce.
There's been no indication that Adams would request a trade if Pierce remains the head coach, and with Crosby threatening to leave if that doesn't happen, it's hard to imagine team owner Mark Davis would be bold enough to call his bluff.
All signs point to Pierce remaining with the Raiders, which would significantly diminish any hopes that Adams is traded. What once seemed like a sure thing suddenly feels like more of a longshot than anything.
The Jets will undoubtedly be in the market for wide receiver help this offseason, with the team expected to go big-fish hunting. Other names, such as Tee Higgins and Mike Evans, will be on their radar, but Adams' connection to Rodgers has made him the most obvious fit.
Unfortunately for Jets fans hoping for a Rodgers/Adams reunion, it's starting to feel like little more than a pipedream. If Pierce stays in Vegas, don't expect Adams to be going anywhere.