Davante Adams' path to securing Rams extension isn't as clear as fans may think

The two-year, $44 million contract the Los Angeles Rams gave Davante Adams last offseason paid immediate dividends. Despite missing three games, the 33-year-old led the league in receiving touchdowns, 14, with room to spare. The red-zone connection he shared with quarterback Matthew Stafford was as immaculate as it was instantaneous. 

Maintaining that connection will be key for Adams to secure an extension with the Rams beyond the 2026 season. Replicating his 2025 production would be ideal, but it might not be necessary. Aside from being a touchdown machine last season, he registered 60 catches, 789 receiving yards, and an 85 percent first-down rate. 

The reality is that Adams will be a year older. Even if his contributions dip slightly, however, as long as he remains Stafford's go-to red-zone target, the Rams should strive to keep the pair of future Hall of Fame candidates together in Los Angeles.

Telepathic connection with Stafford is Adams' ticket to extension

Stafford recently secured his own long-awaited extension, tacking an extra year and $55 million onto his existing deal. Although the contract is structured for year-to-year flexibility, Stafford is now under contract through 2027.

Adams has already said he wants to play as long as No. 9 does. If Stafford sticks around for 2027 - and why wouldn't he, if he's healthy and looks anything like his MVP self - extending Adams would give him his wish. 

That's probably Stafford's wish, too. One has to imagine that he will have a say in receiver personnel as long as he remains the Rams' quarterback. Having a veteran security blanket in the most important part of the field is an indispensable asset. 

Adams gave the Rams that and more in 2025. In a receiver room thin on options after Puka Nacua and Adams, they'll hope for more of the same this season. Actually, the offense might not survive otherwise. Still, expecting Adams to play as though he isn't entering his 13th season, after the wear and tear of 178 career games, may be unrealistic. 

Even so, if he's still attracting touchdown throws like a magnet, in lockstep with his veteran quarterback, extending Adams at a cheaper price tag would be a no-brainer.

Other than Nacua, whose own extension timeline has plunged into uncertainty, there isn't a receiver on the roster anywhere near a lock to make the team in 2027. The Horns may find themselves more dependent on retaining Adams than they would like to. 

When it comes down to it, the ball is in his court. Answering a strong 12th season with a solid volley in 2026 should reserve Adams' seat on the next iteration of the roster.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow