Davante Adams is dealing with a hamstring injury and he will be out of the Raiders’ lineup for Sunday’s contest against the Browns. The All-Pro wideout is set to be sidelined for a longer period, however.
Adams’ injury occurred during Vegas’ Thursday practice and ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Paul Gutierrez report he is expected to be out for multiple weeks. Hamstring injuries can often linger and players prematurely returning to the field can lead to lengthier absences. The Raiders will no doubt proceed with caution in this case.
Since being acquired via trade in 2022, Adams as served as the team’s top wideout. The 31-year-old totaled 203 catches across his first two campaigns in Vegas and expectations remain high for his output moving forward. His 209 yards lead the team in 2024, underscoring how impactful his absence will be in the passing game. While missed time could lower Adams’ trade value, the ESPN report reiterates such a move is not under consideration (as was the case during the offseason).
Still, the six-time Pro Bowler was viewed in the build-up to the season as a trade candidate depending on how the campaign played out. The Raiders sit at 1-2 after a lopsided loss to the Panthers. Head coach Antonio Pierce made his displeasure clear in the aftermath of that contest, leading to speculation significant changes could be coming. Quarterback Gardner Minshew remains atop the depth chart, however. The veteran will now rely on other pass-catching options for the time being.
Tight end Brock Bowers has enjoyed a strong start to his rookie season, registering at least 41 yards in each game to date. Vegas’ top pick in April’s draft will be expected to take on a larger target share in Adams’ absence. At the receiver spot, veteran Jakobi Meyers is now positioned to handle an increased workload alongside fellow starter Tre Tucker. The latter posted 96 yards and a touchdown on seven receptions last week and Vegas’ offense would welcome a repeat performance on Sunday.
Placing Adams on injured reserve would require a four-game absence. It remains to be seen if such a move becomes necessary, but his status will be worth watching closely over the near future as the Raiders (a team which will be without Maxx Crosby on Sunday) look to avoid a 1-3 start to the season.
