Jets HC Compares Davante Adams-Garrett Wilson Duo to 49ers’ Jerry Rice-Terrell Owens

Andrew PetersOctober 16, 2024

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New York Jets interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich has high expectations for his new wide receiver duo.

The Jets landed Davante Adams in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, teaming him up with star receiver Garrett Wilson. Ulbrich compared the two to Hall of Famers Terrell Owens and Jerry Rice, who Ulbrich played with when he was with the San Francisco 49ers.

“I think the best thing, I was fortunate enough in San Francisco to be around Terrell Owens and Jerry Rice and to see firsthand all that Jerry taught T.O.,” Ulbrich said Tuesday, via NFL.com’s Kevin Patra. “Jerry, at the time, was in his 18th year, whatever it was, but so established and understood the game at the highest level. I think Davante’s going to provide that same thing for Garrett and for all of our receivers. He’s done this at an elite level for a long time, and on top of all of it, you’re going to see exactly the reflection of a relationship with Aaron (Rodgers), the synergy that they’ve had for so long. So, it’s an exciting time to be a Jet in that way.”

Rice played with Owens for four seasons when he was an established veteran and Owens was looking to make a name for himself. Their situation mirrors that of Adams, who is in his 11th season, and Wilson, who is in his third.

Wilson has had a tremendous start to his career, recording 1,000 or more receiving yards in his first two seasons and on pace to do it again this year. While Adams will likely replace him as the Jets’ WR1, having a 10,000-yard career receiver could do wonders for Wilson as he continues to develop.

Beyond Adams acting as a mentor for Wilson, the Jets are also hoping his addition can help them snap an ugly 13-year playoff drought. New York is 2-4 so far this season, but could be due for better days with Adams on the roster.