Davante Adams, currently a wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, recently spoke about the future of quarterback Aaron Rodgers with the Pittsburgh Steelers, sharing observations from their time together on the New York Jets last season. Adams hinted at a resurgence in Rodgers’ abilities, highlighting the quarterback’s potential to return to form as the new NFL season approaches.
Comments from Ryan Clark Highlight Rodgers’ Recovery and Form
Ryan Clark, a former Steelers safety and current NFL analyst, shared an update on Rodgers during an appearance on ESPN’s Get Up. Clark described a recent conversation he had with Adams, emphasizing that comparisons between Rodgers and lower-tier quarterbacks are misguided. According to Clark, Adams remarked,
“People comparing Aaron Rodgers to some of the bottom-half of the quarterbacks in the NFL have absolutely lost their mind.” —Davante Adams
Further adding, Adams observed that late in the previous season, Rodgers was showing signs of improvement consistent with his status as a future Hall of Famer:
“Being in that building with [Rodgers] towards the end of the season, you could start to see it coming back for Aaron Rodgers, the future Hall of Famer.” —Davante Adams
Rodgers Battled Injuries But Showed Late-Season Promise
Last season was challenging for Rodgers, who dealt with multiple injuries including a lingering hip issue, knee problems, a low ankle sprain, and a significant hamstring strain while playing for the Jets. Despite these setbacks and a 3-10 team record, the 41-year-old quarterback managed to throw eight touchdowns against three interceptions in his final four games, including two wins.
Reports this spring indicated Rodgers was feeling much better after rest and rehabilitation, which may contribute to his promising start in training camp with the Steelers. While it remains uncertain if Rodgers will consistently deliver high scoring performances, his arm talent has been noticeable during preseason workouts.
Adams’ Familiarity with Rodgers’ Peak Performance
Adams is well placed to assess Rodgers’ skill level, having been teammates with him on the Green Bay Packers from 2014 to 2021 before reuniting briefly on the Jets last season. Adams recorded 67 receptions for 854 yards and seven touchdowns over 11 games with the Jets after being traded from the Las Vegas Raiders last October.
Given their history, Adams’ observations about Rodgers’ potential comeback carry weight, especially as Rodgers embarks on a new chapter with the Steelers.
Upcoming Season Opener Pits Steelers Against Jets
The Steelers are set to open their season against the Jets on September 7 at MetLife Stadium. Although Rodgers’ recent performances in camp are encouraging, results on the scoreboard remain to be seen. Adams’ comments suggest that the Jets offense could face difficulties in containing a reinvigorated Rodgers and Steelers unit.
This matchup will provide an early test for Rodgers’ ability to regain top form and impact Pittsburgh’s prospects in the upcoming NFL season.