The Los Angeles Rams’ landing of star wide receiver Davante Adams was one of the most notable wide receiver signings in 2025 NFL free agency. The team added a premier pass catcher to an already potent offense that features standout Puka Nacua and veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford.
But as it turns out, Stafford wasn’t just preparing to throw to Adams — he was part of the reason Adams came to L.A. In comments made this week, Rams general manager Les Snead peeled back the curtain on how the move came together, and just how involved Stafford was behind the scenes.
Rams’ Matthew Stafford Green-Lit Davante Adams, Puka Nacua Gave Up the Number
“Sean [McVay] always, let’s call it, collaborates with Matthew on some of the skill [position players], and he was all for it,” Snead said of Stafford’s role in the Adams signing on “The Pat McAfee Show.” That endorsement from the Rams’ Super Bowl-winning quarterback helped fuel the team’s aggressive push to secure a two-year, $46 million deal ($26 million guaranteed) with the three-time All-Pro.
"Sean McVay always collaborates with Matthew Stafford..
He was definitely all for adding Davante Adams"
Les Snead #PMSLive #RamsHouse pic.twitter.com/l5krgGeYvi
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 29, 2025
Snead’s comments highlight the trust the Rams’ front office places in Stafford’s football instincts — particularly when it comes to building chemistry with high-profile weapons like Adams. The GM said the move wasn’t just about star power, but about fit, timing, and buy-in from all sides.
Adams is expected to take over as the team’s primary X-receiver, and it didn’t take long for ripple effects to show. According to Snead, Puka Nacua was already planning to switch from No. 17 to No. 12 — a number previously worn by former Ram Van Jefferson and one with sentimental value to Nacua’s family. That paved the way for Adams to reclaim No. 17, the number he famously wore during his years with Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay.
“Interesting — I think Puka was gonna give up [No.] 17 for [No. 12] before Davante [Adams] got in the building,” Snead said. “Maybe he should’ve held that secret a little bit and maybe gotten Davante to give him a tip for that number.”
While Adams didn’t need convincing to join a contender, Stafford’s involvement and the Rams’ collaborative culture helped seal the deal. Now, with Adams in the mix, Los Angeles has assembled what could be one of the most dangerous receiving corps in the NFL.
The Rams are the third team in two seasons for the 11-year veteran. Adams began 2024 with the Las Vegas Raiders before being traded to the New York Jets to reunite with Aaron Rodgers. While their connection once thrived in Green Bay, it didn’t quite replicate in New York. Adams’ best season came back in 2021 with the Packers, when he racked up 1,553 yards — his third 1,000-yard campaign in Wisconsin.