GREEN BAY – Davante Adams has a new accolade to add to his ever-growing list of accomplishments during what has been an historic 2020 season for the Packers' Pro Bowl receiver.
On Wednesday, quarterback Aaron Rodgers surprised Adams with the news he's been officially welcomed to the "99 Club," a group of current players rated 99 overall in the "Madden NFL" video game franchise.
"I'm going to welcome you to the exclusive "Madden 99 Club," my friend. It's about time," said Rodgers, after directing Adams to open a box by his desk. "We joked for awhile about top 12 (receiver) and then there's been a common thread about top 2, not two, but you're finally getting the due you deserve, my brother."
Adams, who started the season with a 94 rating, has steadily climbed as "Madden 21" has been updated. As far as secondary skills, he also has a 99 in catching, release and short-route running.
Despite missing two games earlier this season with a hamstring injury, the four-time Pro Bowl receiver could break several franchise records during this Sunday's regular-season finale in Chicago.
In 13 games, Adams has 109 catches for 1,328 yards and a league-best 17 touchdown receptions. He needs three catches and one receiving touchdown to match Sterling Sharpe's team record in both categories.
Other "99 Club" members include Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald, Carolina running back Christian McCaffrey, Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce, Arizona receiver DeAndre Hopkins, and New England cornerback Stephon Gilmore.
Adams' box included a diamond-studded gold necklace with the '99' etched in the center, which Rodgers used to make a subtle remark about Adams' Pro Football Hall of Fame potential.
"I think that necklace is the same color as a jacket you might be wearing here in about a decade or so," Rodgers said. "I hope you like that color, because it looks good on you."
In addition to Adams, the Packers have four other players currently rated 90 or better in "Madden 21:" left tackle David Bakhtiari (96), Rodgers (95), cornerback Jaire Alexander (93) and running back Aaron Jones (90).
"I grew up loving 'Madden.' I still love that game," Adams said. "I put in a lot of work for this, so I'm glad it's paid off and I'm glad that it's getting recognized."
