Packers: Why a Davante Adams extension makes sense this offseason

Coming off a career-year, Davante Adams could soon be in line for a contract extension. The Green Bay Packers should get a new deal done sooner rather than later.

Adams only has one year remaining on his contract so the Packers should start negotiations over a new deal this offseason.

Doing so not only ensures one of the Packers’ star plays is under contract beyond 2021, but it could also help ease the team’s salary cap situation for next season.

With the expectation that the salary cap will be reduced somewhat as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic — ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported it could be down to $180-181 million in 2021 — the Packers have work to do.

According to Over The Cap, Adams is set for a cap hit of $16.79 million in 2021, the fourth-highest on the team. By working out an extension for Adams, the team would have the opportunity to structure it so that his 2021 cap hit is reduced. Doing so would push money into future years, but if the salary cap increases again beyond 2021, it would make sense.

It doesn’t feel like there would be a ton of risk by taking this approach.

Not only is Adams showing no signs of slowing down any time soon, he’s improved each and every year and performed better than every other wide receiver this past season. It was a record-setting year for Adams, who totaled 1,374 yards and a league-best 18 touchdowns, even after missing two games with injury.

A first-team All-Pro in 2020 and a Pro Bowler four straight years, Adams is on top of his game.

He doesn’t rely on speed to beat defenders, instead his incredible release, footwork, and route-running. Adams should still be one of the best receivers in the NFL for many years to come.

Extending Adams’ deal is a must at some point in the near future, and doing so soon can also present some short-term benefits for the Packers when it comes to the 2021 cap.