Jets Begin Transition, Open Trade Talks for Adams and Lazard

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The New York Jets are embarking on a significant transition as they prepare to part ways with two of their veteran wide receivers: Davante Adams and Allen Lazard. The Jets have granted Lazard permission to seek a trade before the new league year begins on March 12, while Adams is also exploring options with other teams, according to multiple sources, including ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Both receivers carry hefty salary expectations, with Adams set to make $35.6 million and Lazard $11 million in 2025, both figures being non-guaranteed. The likelihood of executing trades for either player appears slim, leading analysts to predict that both could be released before the onset of free agency next week.

While the Jets are open to retaining Lazard, such an outcome would necessitate a substantial pay cut. This monumental shift follows a disappointing 5-12 season, prompting the organization to shed remnants of the Aaron Rodgers regime. Notable moves from the past couple of years included acquiring Lazard through a four-year, $44 million contract and trading for Adams last October for a 2025 third-round draft pick.

General manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn have since taken over the decision-making process, marking the end of an era that heavily revolved around the now-departed quarterback Rodgers. By moving on from Adams and Lazard, the Jets can free up approximately $36.5 million in salary cap space, providing them with essential flexibility for upcoming roster changes.

In his two seasons with the Jets, Lazard, 29, recorded just 60 receptions for 841 yards and only two touchdowns, culminating in a benching in 2023. Adams, 32, fared much better over 11 games last season, contributing 67 catches for 854 yards and seven touchdowns. However, his future with the team remains uncertain, particularly as he has hinted he may not wish to return without Rodgers.

“There are no guarantees, but I’m prepared for any outcomes,” Adams said after the season. His potential release would save the Jets nearly $30 million in cap space with only $8.36 million counted as dead money.

As the free agency period approaches, speculation about Adams’ next destination has intensified. His name has been linked to various teams scouting high-profile wide receiver options. With few attractive options expected to be available in free agency, and some teams reconsidering their current rosters, interest in Adams could pick up rapidly.

Players such as Allen Lazard, who thrived under specific quarterback systems, might find themselves in an unpredictable market as well. Given the Jets’ decisions to move on from these key figures, they are challenged with rebuilding their ranks as they enter this offseason.

With all signs indicating a significant roster overhaul ahead, Jets fans and analysts alike are left awaiting further developments as free agency nears.