⁠It was not too long ago that Davante Adams was traded to the New York Jets. The debut was unsuccessful. Instead of patience, the top receiver reacts with a clear message to his new team.

The New York Jets got off to a rough start this season. After week 7, the team is 2-5. The organization reacted and traded for Devante Adams, quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ favorite receiving target.

Just five days after the move, Adams made his debut against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Jets lost 15-37, with Adams catching three passes for 30 yards. Not bad for such a short settling-in period, but not good enough for Adams. Despite his status as a rookie, the experienced NFL pro is not afraid of making a powerful statement to his new teammates.

After the game, he complained to the reporter’s microphone about the lack of mentality. On the sidelines of a training session, he elaborated: “There was a lack of energy and urgency, and it was obvious,” said Adams. “I’ve played on teams that have a culture of winning,” he elaborates. He emphasizes that he actually wanted to hold back a bit. “But I felt, ‘Forget it, because we don’t have time. I have to do what I have to do to help the team move forward.”

Adams called it ‘a waste’ to see that kind of attitude in a team with such a talented roster. Against the Steelers, things looked good for a long time. The Jets led 15-6, but couldn’t hold the lead. “It’s unacceptable to come out of the locker room so down and give away a game,” Adams said. His goal is clear: ”So I’m just trying to bring a different kind of momentum and culture here.”

Adams is actually used to success. He made the playoffs every year in his first six years in the NFL. All with the Green Bay Packers and all with Adam Rodgers. This was followed by four seasons without luck. Adams consistently missed the playoffs. Just like the Jets, who last made the playoffs 13 years ago.

Rodgers has been a strong supporter of his longtime friend since the announcement: “I felt like Tae was about to say something,” Rodgers said. “And then he started talking and everyone in the locker room felt it. I drove home with him after the game and told him I was proud of him for what he said in that moment.”

Teammate praises Adams: “A real guy”

Jets defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw was also enthusiastic about the newcomer’s leadership qualities: “He was emotional. It wasn’t nonsense. It came from the heart. You could see the passion in his eyes. This guy is a real guy.”

Adams and the Jets must now follow up against the New England Patriots. “If we go out with the same problems in the next game, then it’s an even bigger problem,” he said. For Adams, however, one thing is clear: “And whether I just got here or not, I’m the leader of this football team, and whether everyone else sees it that way or not, that’s how I see it and that’s my responsibility and that’s something I take seriously.”