In the world of professional football, some rivalries transcend time, teams, and even personal career shifts. One such example surfaced recently when Davante Adams took a swipe at the Bears, reminding fans that even a change in jersey color can’t erase years of competitive fire. Adams, now with the New York Jets, showed that his disdain for the Chicago Bears, rooted deeply from his years with the Green Bay Packers, remains as fierce as ever.
Adams’ Unfiltered Moment on “Up & Adams”
Appearing on the talk show “Up & Adams” hosted by Kay Adams, Davante was asked a light-hearted but intriguing question: would he ever consider playing for the Chicago Bears? Without hesitation, Adams laughed off the notion with a firm “No. Never.”
The quick and decisive response sparked laughter between the host and Adams, but when pressed for further explanation, the wide receiver got candid. At 31 years old and entering the twilight years of his career, Adams made it clear he had no interest in ending his NFL journey with a franchise he once relished defeating.
“I respect every team I play,” Adams said, “but I’m not finishing my career in Chicago. That’s just not happening.”
A Record That Explains It All
Adams’ response wasn’t just based on sentiment — it was backed by a dominant history. During his tenure with the Packers, he amassed a 14–3 record against the Bears, often being a key figure in Green Bay’s victories. His personal success against Chicago has contributed to the lopsided narrative of the historic Bears-Packers rivalry in recent years.
In his own words, Adams described matchups against the Bears as opportunities for “going crazy” and setting personal or team records. Rather than viewing Chicago as a threat, the Packers locker room, according to Adams, treated those games as chances to showcase their dominance.
Respect Without Reverence
Adams was careful to clarify that while there is a baseline respect for all professional opponents, the Bears simply never commanded the same level of concern that top-tier teams did.
“Naturally, as a Packer, you hate the Bears,” he explained. “And while we respect the game and every opponent, Chicago wasn’t seen as a real threat during my time in Green Bay. It was more like a game we could dominate.”
This attitude, while bold, echoes the reality many Packers fans have lived for decades — where Green Bay has consistently overshadowed Chicago, particularly during the Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams era.
Bitterness or Just Honest Competition?
Some may see Adams’ comments as disrespectful, but others recognize it as part of what makes sports rivalries compelling. Honest emotions, long-standing grudges, and a competitive fire that doesn’t easily burn out — that’s the essence of rivalry in the NFL.
Even though Adams now suits up for the Jets, a struggling team hoping to find its rhythm, his comments show that a player’s competitive DNA doesn’t simply change with a change of scenery.
Conclusion: Rivalries Shape Legends
Davante Adams’ swipe at the Bears serves as a reminder that in professional sports, rivalries aren’t just about cities or fanbases; they shape how players think, feel, and remember their careers. Even as Adams navigates the latter stages of his NFL journey with a new team, the lessons, experiences, and emotions forged during his battles with Chicago remain sharp.
FAQs
1. Why did Davante Adams say he would never play for the Bears?
Adams cited his loyalty to his Packers background and longstanding rivalry with the Bears, saying he wouldn’t end his career in Chicago.
2. How successful was Davante Adams against the Bears?
Adams had a dominant 14–3 record against the Bears during his time with the Packers.
3. What show did Davante Adams make these comments on?
He made the remarks during an appearance on “Up & Adams” with Kay Adams.
4. Does Davante Adams maintain any level of respect for the Bears as a team? While he respects all opponents, Adams suggested that he never saw the Bears as a serious threat during his career in Green Bay.
5. Is Davante Adams still actively playing in the NFL?
Yes, he is currently playing for the New York Jets after stints with the Packers and Raiders.
