Davante Adams, less than a week into his tenure with the New York Jets, delivered a candid message to his teammates following their recent defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 7. Speaking about the Jets’ lackluster performance, Adams noted, “Obviously, there was a lack of energy and urgency out there. It was apparent,” as reported by Brian Costello of the *New York Post*.
The wide receiver, who was traded to New York from the Las Vegas Raiders, felt compelled to address the team despite initial hesitations. “I’ve played on teams that have that winning culture. Basically, I took a moment to let them know. I had reservations about speaking up too early and being too vocal too early, but in my mind, I said, ‘F that’ because we don’t have time. I’ve got to do whatever I’ve got to do to help this team move forward,” Adams explained.
Adams’ arrival was expected to provide a much-needed boost to the Jets’ offense. In his debut with New York, Adams caught three of his nine targets for 30 yards. Despite the modest showing, the All-Pro receiver emphasized that his role extends beyond immediate on-field production. “I’m not here to be the savior,” he said, stressing the importance of changing the team’s culture.
His postgame speech was well-received by the team, with quarterback Aaron Rodgers describing it as “the realest speech I’ve ever heard in a locker room in 20 years.”
Adams also noted the team’s lack of energy on the sideline, citing a moment during the game when teammate Breece Hall recorded a 57-yard reception but failed to ignite enthusiasm among the players. He remarked that many Jets players have not been part of a winning team and may not understand the urgency required to build success.
The 31-year-old wideout brings a wealth of experience to the Jets, having played in the postseason in six of his 10 NFL seasons. The Jets, on the other hand, have not made a playoff appearance since 2010.
Despite the high-profile additions of Adams and Rodgers, the Jets have struggled to turn things around. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich is 0-2 since taking over for Robert Saleh, who was dismissed after a 2-3 start. New York now sits at 2-5 following a four-game losing streak, with their next challenge coming against the New England Patriots on Sunday.
