Former Green Bay Packers receiver Davante Adams talked with former NFL receiver Brandon Marshall for almost two hours on the “I Am Athlete” podcast. The two chatted about a variety of topics, including Adams’ departure from Green Bay.
Some highlights from the podcast:
— It was “tough” living in Wisconsin based on the weather but also “great” for keeping him focused on football.
— He wasn’t happy about going into last year of his deal without a new contract. And he had to make a “business decision” once the tag was applied after the 2021 season.
— Made it clear that he’d still be with the Packers if the offer was right early on.
— Admitted Aaron Rodgers’ uncertainity in Green Bay played a big factor in his decision to leave.
— Adams said “cash flow” was a problem for the Packers in contract negotiations.
— Initial offer from Packers was under $20 million before 2021 season. He signed a deal worth $28.5 per year from the Raiders.
— “No bad blood” with team. Adams still follows the Packers on Instagram. Still communicates with Brian Gutekunst, Matt LaFleur and Mark Murphy.
— Adams said he’s still close friends with Aaron Rodgers. Admitted he “recruited the hell out of Aaron Rodgers” after Packers lost to Lions in the season finale.
— Didn’t feel disrespected by Rodgers picking the Jets.
Here’s the full interview:
Takeaway: Adams made it clear: He would have stayed with the Packers had the money lined up early in the negotiations, but a low initial offer, the team making him play out 2021 on the final year of his deal and then tagging him entering the 2022 offseason, Rodgers’ uncertain future and the allure of playing in Las Vegas all contributed to his desire to be traded.
