Former LA Chargers general manager Tom Telesco faces a significant challenge in his inaugural season with the Las Vegas Raiders. Just four games into the 2024 season, star wide receiver Davante Adams has reportedly informed the Raiders of his desire to be traded.
Anyone who has been following the Raiders this season could see this coming. Signs have pointed to Adams requesting a trade for months, and it wasn’t until October 1st that the request officially surfaced.
While it’s always satisfying for Chargers fans to see the Raiders struggle, the Bolts are also in need of a wide receiver. This urgency has sparked a social media campaign urging the Chargers to make a trade for Adams.
However, due to the intra-division rivalry and Telesco’s potential resentment toward the Chargers, the idea of trading for Adams might seem far-fetched. Nonetheless, the Raiders reportedly have a low asking price for the former All-Pro receiver, which the Chargers could manage.
ESPN sources: Raiders have informed other teams that they would “consider” trading WR Davante Adams for a package that would include a second-round pick and additional compensation. pic.twitter.com/RtRrhUeYKi
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 1, 2024
Chargers Can Afford the Reported Asking Price for Davante Adams
If the Chargers are serious about enhancing their offense with a top-tier receiver, they could easily afford to trade for Adams. A second-round pick along with additional compensation seems like a reasonable deal, especially considering that the Chargers’ second-round pick in 2025 is likely to fall in the 50s.
The Chargers could also handle Adams’ salary cap hit this season, and with financial flexibility in the coming years, they could incorporate his contract into their budget for 2025 and 2026. Adams is set to earn a base salary of $35.64 million in 2025 and $36.64 million in 2026, which the Chargers would need to cover.
On paper, this trade could address the Chargers’ most pressing offensive need. Quarterback Justin Herbert would gain a reliable target in Adams, and they would have him for several seasons, rather than just a short-term solution, which is what the Chargers require.
But is this move worthwhile? Probably not.
Despite the appealing prospects, Adams’ age should give Chargers fans pause. At 32, Adams is reaching a stage in his career where his performance may begin to decline. By 2026, he might not even maintain Pro Bowl status, let alone his All-Pro form.
Additionally, even if the Chargers can afford the relatively modest asking price for Adams, the Raiders would likely be reluctant to trade him to Los Angeles. Not only would Telesco be aiding the franchise that let him go, but the Raiders would also be strengthening a divisional rival.
So, is a trade for Adams feasible given the reported price? Yes. Is it realistic for the Chargers? Not really.
