"He seemed like a very genuine, nice man... focused on being a good person, not just a good NFL player." --- NFL commissioner Roger Goodell to the LA Times.
"I will always remember Gaines as someone who was fun to be around. He was definitely a people person, a very friendly guy. He was taken far too soon from us and he will surely be missed. I know that God has a plan for everyone and all that we can do is extend our thoughts and prayers to the Adams family during this difficult time." --- Defensive end Jimmy Wilkerson.
"This is a sad day for Clemson Nation. Gaines was not only a great player at Clemson, he was an outstanding young man.
"He was a great example of how you could progress through hard work.  He played eight-man football in high school, then became a top five pick.  How many people have done that.  I was an offensive assistant coach during his career, and we all  took notice of his considerable skills. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family." --- Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney, who was the wide receiver coach when Adams played there.
"Today is a very tragic day for Gaines' family, friends and teammates. I still don't want to believe that it is true. I am deeply saddened that we have lost someone who I considered a friend for life. When he came to Tampa I took Gaines under my wing; I considered him my little brother and that's how I will always remember him. This is all so unreal and it hasn't really hit me yet."
"Gaines will be missed by all of us, especially by his teammates in our locker room. He was a true team player and a positive influence to everyone he met. My prayers go out to his family." --- Buccaners head coach Raheem Morris.