Jets' Adams calls out teammates: 'I'm not here to be the savior'

Wide receiver Davante Adams, who recently joined the New York Jets, felt compelled to address his teammates just days after their loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In a postgame speech, Adams called out the team's lack of energy during their Week 7 defeat.

"Obviously, there was a lack of energy and urgency out there. It was apparent," Adams said on Wednesday, as reported by the New York Post's Brian Costello.

Having played for teams with a winning culture, Adams expressed concerns about speaking up too soon but ultimately decided it was necessary. "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," he added.

Adams, who was acquired in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, was expected to give New York's offense a significant boost. However, his Jets debut saw him catch just three of nine targets for 30 yards. Despite wanting to contribute more, Adams emphasized that his primary role is to help change the team's culture.

"I'm not here to be the savior," Adams said. He noted that his message was well-received by his teammates and stressed that it will take a collective effort to improve the team's fortunes.

Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers praised the speech, saying, "I thought it was the realest speech I've ever heard in a locker room in 20 years."

Adams also pointed out the lack of energy on the sideline after Breece Hall's 57-yard reception. According to the six-time Pro Bowler, many Jets players have never experienced the urgency of being part of a winning team.

At 31, Adams brings significant postseason experience, having played for playoff-bound teams in six of his 10 NFL seasons. Meanwhile, the Jets have not made the playoffs since 2010.

Despite acquiring Rodgers and other high-profile players over the past two seasons, the Jets are struggling. They currently sit at 2-5, amid a four-game losing streak. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich is 0-2 since taking over for Robert Saleh, who was fired after a 2-3 start.