Suddenly, Davante Adams’ hamstring injury seems to have healed.

After missing the last three games with the Las Vegas Raiders and being sidelined for three weeks of practice, Adams is back in action following a major trade on Tuesday that reunited him with Aaron Rodgers. As a result, he is not even on the injury report for Sunday night’s game.

This means the 31-year-old wide receiver will make his debut with the New York Jets during a high-stakes game against Pittsburgh at night, with all signs pointing to his fitness.

Interesting how quickly that changed.

“He’s been outstanding,” Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich shared with the media regarding Adams’ performance in practice this week.

What a remarkable recovery. The Jets (2-4) were one of the top teams Adams wanted to be traded to, alongside the New Orleans Saints, led by his former teammate, Derek Carr.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens were among the other teams interested in Adams, with at least two having made more appealing offers than a third-round draft pick (which could escalate to a second-round pick if Adams regains his All-Pro status). However, Adams had no interest in pursuing offers from those teams unless negotiations with either the Jets or Saints fell through, according to a source familiar with the situation who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of trade negotiations.

Regardless, Adams steps into a talented receiving group — featuring Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard, and Mike Williams — considered one of the strongest in the league. With Rodgers and the offense facing challenges, Adams’ quick recovery could be just what they need.

In a surprising twist, Williams, who missed two practice days this week for “personal reasons,” is also set to play on Sunday night. He took time off following Rodgers’ public criticism after a narrow loss to Buffalo, where Williams failed to run the intended route, contributing to an interception that sealed the game.

It raises questions about whether his absence was connected to the criticisms or the arrival of Adams, which could push Williams further down the lineup. With Adams joining the team, Williams is expected to be the fourth receiver, prompting speculation regarding a possible trade.

In a Friday press conference, Williams insisted there’s no link between the drama from Monday night and his time away.

Nevertheless, as the Jets aim to end a three-game losing streak, many questions linger.

New kickoffs showing promise with minimal injuries

Whether loved or disliked, the new “dynamic” kickoff appears to be effective in improving safety. The NFL reported that in the first six weeks, there was just one concussion and no torn ACL or MCL injuries during kickoffs, despite nearly double the number of returns this year (304 compared to 160 at the same time last year).

Historically, kickoff returns have led to the highest number of concussions since 2016. Nevertheless, the new kickoff regulation seems to be achieving its intended purpose by reducing high-impact collisions.

While adjustments are likely for next season, including a possible change to the starting spot after touchbacks, the NFL is meeting its objective of reintroducing kickoff returns while minimizing injuries. The return rate of 32% is significantly higher than the 17% rate at this point in 2023, and the average start position of 29.3 yards enhances scoring opportunities.

NFL TV ratings defy election-year trend so far

Typically, the NFL experiences a drop in ratings during presidential election years, a pattern seen since 1996. However, this time, no such decline has emerged.

“We’ll take it,” remarked Brian Rolapp, the NFL’s chief media executive, to YSL News Sports.

The league has averaged 17.5 million viewers over the first five weeks, a 1% increase from last year and the best start since 2015.

Rolapp attributes the positive trend to various factors, including the growing number of streaming platforms broadcasting NFL games and the excitement generated from many close matchups this season, which has contributed to avoiding the usual drop in viewership during election years.

“History doesn’t always dictate what happens next,” Rolapp noted.

Nonetheless, with 29 of the top 30 broadcasts this year belonging to the NFL, the league seems well-positioned as the election coverage intensifies.

“If you’re looking for political coverage, it’s almost everywhere, all the time. You can’t escape it. I think we offer a refreshing alternative during this period, and audiences appreciate that,” Rolapp concluded.

As the presidential race heats up, it will be fascinating to see if the NFL can continue to break from the trend of declining ratings during election years.

David Montgomery’s tireless running style has a special impact on Dan Campbell. Following last Sunday’s impressive win against Dallas, where Montgomery showcased several incredible, effort-filled runs, the passionate Lions coach felt inspired to the extent that he could picture himself playing again.

“You know, these old bones can’t play anymore, right?” Campbell, who had an 11-season career as a tight end in the NFL, commented. “This old, battered body. But he just makes you can’t help but wish you could be on the field with that guy. I really wish I could have played alongside him. He’s that kind of runner and that kind of teammate. It’s truly inspiring.”

Montgomery responded, “It would be pretty cool to see him in front of me.”

At least Campbell can look forward to watching Montgomery from the sidelines for the time being. Last weekend, the Lions secured Montgomery’s services with a two-year contract extension worth $18.25 million, keeping the dynamic running back in Detroit through 2026. This move is part of a broader strategy by Lions GM Brad Holmes to retain key players on the team.

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

“We never imagined a year or two down the line without ‘5’ on our team,” Campbell said, referencing Montgomery’s jersey number. “It just didn’t make sense. He embodies what we are all about and is a big part of our team. We can’t let a guy like that go, so I’m thrilled he’s with us for the long haul.”

Quick Slants

— In the better-late-than-never news: Darrell Green’s No. 28 jersey will be retired by the Washington Commanders during a halftime event on Sunday, just after he receives a key to the city from Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. The Hall of Fame cornerback, who played for 20 years with Washington and was part of three Super Bowl-winning teams, deserves this honor despite the long wait. This recognition reflects the franchise’s commitment to correcting past oversights under new owner Josh Harris.

— How about a coin toss? The Chiefs have won two out of three Super Bowls in the past five years against the 49ers, and Patrick Mahomes has a perfect record against San Francisco (4-0). Surprisingly, the undefeated Chiefs are considered 1 ½-point underdogs in the upcoming Super Bowl rematch in Santa Clara. This matchup will mark the 10th time two teams have faced off in the regular season after meeting in the previous year’s Super Bowl; the defending champions currently hold a 6-3 advantage. While the 49ers (3-3) may be looking for revenge, it’s important to note that KC coach Andy Reid boasts an impressive 21-4 record after a bye week, and Mahomes holds an 11-1-1 record when considered the underdog.