Suddenly, the hamstring issue that had been bothering Davante Adams is no longer a concern.

Having missed the final three games while with the Las Vegas Raiders and not practicing for three weeks, Adams is now set for his New York Jets debut in a prime-time matchup against Pittsburgh after a significant trade reunited him with Aaron Rodgers. He is not even on the injury list for the upcoming game.

It’s interesting how quickly things have turned around.

“He’s looked incredible,” Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich noted about Adams’ practice performance this week.

What a rapid recovery! The Jets (2-4) were one of two teams that Adams had expressed a desire to be traded to, alongside the New Orleans Saints, led by another former teammate of his, quarterback Derek Carr.

Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens also showed interest in Adams, with at least two making offers better than a third-round pick, which could elevate to a second-round pick if he earns all-pro honors again. However, Adams preferred to focus solely on the Jets or Saints unless those trades fell through, according to a source who spoke to YSL News Sports on the condition of anonymity.

In any case, Adams is joining a wide receiver lineup that features Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard, and Mike Williams, which is considered one of the strongest in the league. Rodgers and his team are surely eager for Adams’ return to invigorate their struggling offense.

On top of that, there’s surprising news: Williams, who sat out two days of practice this week for “personal reasons,” is also expected to play on Sunday. His absence came after Rodgers criticized him for not running the correct route in the game’s closing moments against Buffalo, which led to an interception that sealed the Jets’ defeat.

Questions linger about whether Williams’ absence was linked to his earlier mistakes or the arrival of Adams, which would push Williams further down the receiver depth chart. He is now anticipated to be the fourth receiver, raising speculation about a potential trade.

When asked about his absence, Williams insisted it was unrelated to the Monday night incident.

As the Jets try to end a three-game losing streak, the uncertainties continue.

Just one concussion recorded on ‘dynamic’ kickoffs

Whether one approves or disapproves, the new “dynamic” kickoff has proven effective in reducing injuries. The NFL reported that only one concussion occurred in the first six weeks, along with zero torn ACLs or MCLs, despite nearly double the number of kick returns (304 as compared to 160) from the previous year.

Kickoff returns have historically been the source of most concussions since data tracking began in 2016. However, by minimizing the high-speed collision buildup, the new kickoff approach is performing as intended.

Tweaks are likely for next season, possibly adjusting the touchback spot, but the NFL is achieving its aim of bringing kickoff returns back while minimizing injuries. The return rate has risen to 32%, a significant increase from 17% at this stage last year. Furthermore, the average drive start at the 29.3-yard line enhances scoring opportunities.

NFL TV ratings surprise: No drop during election cycle at least not yet

“We’re pleased with it,” said Brian Rolapp, NFL’s chief media executive, in an interview with YSL News Sports.

Over the first five weeks, the NFL averaged 17.5 million viewers, a 1% rise from the previous year, marking the highest viewership start since 2015.

Rolapp attributes this increase to various factors that have boosted the league’s overall numbers, such as the growing number of streaming services showing NFL games and the excitement around closely contested games, the league seeing a record number of one-score games for this stage of the season.

“This indicates that history doesn’t always dictate the present,” he remarked.

Moreover, with 29 of this year’s top 30 telecasts being NFL games, it seems the league is well-positioned in this political landscape.

“If you’re looking for political coverage, there’s plenty of news outlets available almost around the clock. It’s inescapable. I believe we offer a distinct alternative in this climate, which I think people appreciate,” Rolapp added.

As the presidential campaigns escalate, it’ll be intriguing to see if the NFL can continue this trend against historical election-year rating drops.

If Dan Campbell could still suit up

David Montgomery’s relentless running style has a special impact on Dan Campbell. After a recent commanding victory over Dallas, highlighted by some stunning, effort-filled runs by Montgomery, the passionate Lions coach felt inspired to the point that he could imagine suiting up again.

“Let’s be real, my body isn’t up for playing anymore,” Campbell, who enjoyed an 11-year NFL career as a tight end, admitted. “But he makes you wish you could play alongside him. I really wish I could have played with him. He’s that kind of runner and teammate. It’s motivating.”

“It’s pretty awesome to see him right in front of me,”

At least Coach Campbell will continue to enjoy his close-up view of Montgomery for the time being. This past weekend, the Lions secured Montgomery with a two-year contract extension worth $18.25 million, ensuring that the dynamic running back will remain in Detroit until 2026. This is part of a series of strategic decisions made by Lions GM Brad Holmes to retain key players.

Recently, the Lions also extended contracts for tackle Penei Sewell, quarterback Jared Goff, and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, in addition to Montgomery.

“We couldn’t imagine not having ‘5’ with us a year or two from now,” Campbell said, referring to Montgomery’s jersey number. “It simply didn’t make any sense to us. He embodies what we’re about. He’s integral to our team, and we wouldn’t let someone like him walk away. I’m thrilled to have him here for the long haul.”

Quick highlights

— In a much-deserved acknowledgment: Darrell Green will have his No. 28 jersey honored by the Washington Commanders during a halftime ceremony this Sunday, just a day after receiving a key to the city from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. The Hall of Fame cornerback, who also won the NFL Man of the Year Award, played 20 seasons with Washington and was part of three Super Bowl-winning teams. It’s surprising that this honor took so long for a player celebrated for his speed—Green won the NFL’s Fastest Man Competition four times. This recognition also reflects the new leadership of the franchise under owner Josh Harris, correcting another oversight from previous management.

— Interested in a coin flip? The Chiefs have claimed two of their three Super Bowl victories in a five-year span against the 49ers, and Patrick Mahomes has never lost to San Francisco (4-0). Despite this, the currently undefeated Chiefs are considered 1 ½-point underdogs for their Super Bowl rematch in Santa Clara. This will mark the 10th regular-season game between teams that faced each other in the previous year’s Super Bowl, with the defending champions holding a 6-3 advantage. Although the 49ers (3-3) may seek revenge, it’s noteworthy that KC head coach Andy Reid boasts a 21-4 record following a bye week, and Mahomes is 11-1-1 when considered an underdog.