Gutekunst: Packers, Adams differ on definition of highest-paid WR
Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst seems to differ with Davante Adams on what it means to be the league's highest-paid receiver.
"I think there's a little bit with that particular situation, it's how you interpret what the highest receiver in the National Football League is getting paid, you know what I mean?" Gutekunst said Thursday, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky.
Adams was outspoken Wednesday on becoming the NFL's highest-paid wideout, stating he's earned that right.
"Certainly, I agree with him that he's definitely worth that," Gutekunst added. "We believe that, as well. I think there might be just a little bit of difference in what we believe is the highest-paid receiver and what he might."
The disagreement is based on DeAndre Hopkins' contract, Demovsky adds. Hopkins received a two-year, $54.5-million extension after being traded to the Arizona Cardinals in 2020. While Adams' camp sees Hopkins as the league's highest-paid receiver at $27.25 million per season, the Packers - and many other NFL teams - believe his average annual value is near $20 million because he already had three years remaining on his original contract.
Adams has one season left on his four-year, $58-million deal, which ranks 18th among wide receivers in average annual salary, according to Spotrac. Green Bay and the wideout broke off extension talks after the club balked at Adams' asking price.
Despite the difficulties in negotiations, Gutekunst hopes the two sides are able to come to an agreement.
"Again, we value him," the GM said. "He's such a great player. He's a warrior when he goes out there. Obviously, we would like to figure something out and will continue to work on that as we go."
Adams led the league last season with 18 receiving touchdowns. He also registered 115 receptions and 1,374 yards.
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