The NFL is no stranger to drama, and a rivalry like the Packers versus Bears never fails to deliver—even after over a century. The latest chapter in this storied saga? Davante Adams, the six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, recently reignited the rivalry with a bold statement that had fans buzzing. From his definitive “never” about playing for Chicago to his reflections as a former Green Bay Packer, Adams has reminded everyone just how personal this battle runs. But why does this rivalry still captivate us, and what does it say about the current state of the Bears?
All About Davante Adams Takes a Swipe at the Bears
Davante Adams on the set of the “Up & Adams” show in December 2024, fielding a seemingly harmless question about his future in the NFL. Host Kay Adams asks if he’d consider playing for the Chicago Bears. His response? A firm “never,” accompanied by a smirk that left no room for doubt. “I will not be going to Chicago… I’m not playing for the Bears. No,” he said, earning laughter from the studio but leaving Bears fans less amused.
Adams’ candor wasn’t entirely surprising given his history. An eight-year tenure with the Packers saw him dominate Chicago with 14 wins in 16 games, 1,024 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns. For Adams, the Bears were not just rivals but a team he consistently outperformed. His response on the show? Just another way of asserting that dominance.
What’s Behind Adams Disdain?
Adams’ comments aren’t just about loyalty to the Packers; there’s a deeper story here. At 32 years old and nearing the twilight of his career, Adams has little interest in spending his remaining seasons with a rebuilding team. “I’m not playing too much longer as it is,” he shared, making it clear he’s prioritizing legacy over long-term projects.
The Bears, despite promising young talent like rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, ended the 2024 season with a lackluster 4-10 record and an eight-game losing streak. Their offense struggled for consistency, and their defense often found itself overmatched, as seen in a crushing 30-point game against the Vikings. For a player like Adams, aiming for a Super Bowl ring, aligning with a team still in rebuilding mode doesn’t align with his ambitions.
And then there’s the rivalry factor. Reflecting on his time with the Packers, Adams admitted, “Back in the day, being a Packer playing the Bears, we didn’t worry about ‘Are we going to win the game?’ We were thinking about how crazy we were gonna go in the game. ‘Can I set a record? Can I score twice?’” For Adams, facing the Bears wasn’t just about competition; it was an opportunity to shine.
Why the Packers-Bears Rivalry Never Gets Old?
The Packers-Bears rivalry dates back to 1921, making it the oldest in NFL history. With 210 games under their belt, the Packers lead the series with 108 wins to the Bears’ 96 (and six ties). But while the Bears recently broke their 11-game losing streak against the Packers with a dramatic 24-22 win in January 2025, the rivalry is as heated as ever.
Part of what keeps this feud alive is the sheer emotion it evokes among fans. Whether you’re cheering in Soldier Field or Lambeau, the energy is electric. For Packers fans, the Bears are the ultimate rival, and vice versa. Adams summed it up best when he said, “Not to be disrespectful, it’s just naturally as a Packers player you hate the Bears.” That sentiment captures the essence of this storied rivalry.
What Adams’ Comments Reveal About the Bears?
Adams’ public “no” to playing for the Bears might sting for Chicago fans, but it’s also a reflection of the team’s current state. With no playoff wins since 2010 and just two playoff appearances in the last 12 years, the Bears have struggled to regain their former glory. Despite having exciting pieces like Caleb Williams and significant cap space for 2025 (over $82 million), the team has yet to position itself as an attractive destination for veteran players chasing a title.
Still, there’s hope. With the right leadership and strategic moves, the Bears could retool and rebuild into a contender. After all, even the Packers had their rebuild phases. The question is whether the Bears can make the most of their resources and change the narrative.
What’s Next for Davante Adams?
Since his departure from the Packers, Adams’ career has taken a few twists and turns. After a standout season with the Raiders in 2022, a trade request in 2024 saw him join the New York Jets, only for that stint to end in disappointment. Cut in March 2025 after a difficult 4-10 season, Adams now finds himself with the Los Angeles Rams on a two-year, $46 million deal.
Adams’ move to the Rams is already paying off. He’s spoken highly of head coach Sean McVay and seems reinvigorated after a tumultuous stint with the Jets. With 85 catches, 1,063 yards, and 100 career touchdowns under his belt, Adams is still performing at an elite level. But one thing remains clear: his focus is on chasing a championship ring, and he doesn’t see that happening in Chicago.
Why This Rivalry Keeps Us Talking
Moments like Adams’ swipe at the Bears are why NFL fans gravitate toward this rivalry. It’s not just about what happens on the field; it’s about the history, the emotions, and the personalities involved. Whether you’re a die-hard Packers fan, a hopeful Bears supporter, or just someone who loves good football drama, the Packers-Bears rivalry is an endless source of storytelling.
Adams’ comments also raise an intriguing question for Bears fans: how soon can the team rebuild its reputation to the point where players like Adams say “yes” instead of “never”? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—the Bears’ comeback story, if it happens, will be worth watching.
The Packers-Bears Feud Lives On
The Packers versus Bears rivalry isn’t just a piece of NFL history; it’s a living, breathing tradition of competition, pride, and passion. Davante Adams candid remarks serve as a reminder of how deeply this rivalry is woven into the league’s fabric. And as much as things change, some rivalries never fade. What’s your favorite memory from the Packers-Bears rivalry? Drop your story in the comments—we’d love to hear it!
