Could Jamal Adams’ time in the Big Apple be nearing its end?
New York’s All-Pro safety does not plan on participating in the NFL’s voluntary virtual offseason program next month. That news comes as his representation and the Jets struggle to come to terms on a contract extension that would keep Adams with the team for the foreseeable future.
Adams and the Jets had preliminary contract talks before the NFL combine in February, but general manager Joe Douglas has made it clear that draft preparations are paramount to any contract negotiations right now. This has left the door for Adams to be dealt either in the days leading up to the draft or on draft night.
So, what are the pros and cons of parting ways with Adams? Let’s take a look.
Pro: The Haul
If the Jets opt to trade Adams, there is no doubt they will get a massive haul in exchange for his services.
Adams was a first-team All-Pro last season and is arguably the best safety in football. Considering he is only 24 and has yet to hit his prime, Adams’ value is at an all-time high.
Any team interested in trading for Adams will have to pony up and make Joe Douglas an offer that gives New York enough to replace an elite defensive centerpiece. That means multiple first-round picks and maybe even a young talent. If contract talks with Adams continue to go nowhere, it will be hard for Douglas and the Jets to say no.
Con: Having to replace an elite defensive back
Players like Adams don’t come around every day.
Adams can do it all. He can cover, tackle and rush the quarterback at an elite level. Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams lines him up all over the field and it does wonders for what New York is able to do on defense.
Adams isn’t just a young, elite safety. He is a game-changing talent that you can build an entire team around. Even with a massive haul, replacing that would be nearly impossible.
Pro: What the haul means for the rebuild
Trading Adams would be much more than simply dumping a player in exchange for draft picks because contract negotiations went south.
Moving Adams would give the Jets and Joe Douglas enough draft capital to continue the rebuild of the roster. That means the potential to add more weapons for Sam Darnold and to build a more complete defense through the draft instead of one centered around a star player in the secondary.
Trading Adams would also give New York more financial flexibility down the road. Not extending Adams means more money to spend in the future, which could entice Douglas to pull the trigger on a trade.
Con: Losing a leader
Adams is a leader in every sense of the word. Whether it be on the field or off it, Adams sets an example and is there for his fellow teammates.
As Matt Forte said when Adams was a rookie, the LSU product has an alpha dog mentality. Adams is not a selfish superstar that puts himself above the team. He is the ultimate team player and does whatever is needed of him.
What makes Adams elite goes far beyond his production on the field. His leadership is what sets him apart. If the Jets decided to trade him, his presence will be sorely missed at One Jets Drive.
