All-Pro safety Jamal Adams, one of the best draft picks in New York Jets history, has hinted at a potential rift in the relationship between him and the Jets’ front office.
Now, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN, the star safety would like a monster contract before the season or he would be open to trade with the potential of a holdout.
Sources: Adams irked as Jets talks hit impasse https://t.co/vSePnpWh72
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) May 22, 2020
Longtime NFL reporter Gary Myers added that a trade is now “very possible” and an extension is not likely this offseason.
Sources told me today Jets have given no indication will sign All-Pro S Jamal Adams to new contract in offseason. Want to wait to make decision. He wants contract now. Stalemate has caused friction & sources said trade very possible. It's expected half the teams will call Jets.
— Gary Myers (@GaryMyersNY) May 21, 2020
The 2017 first-round pick has been one of the game’s top safeties over the last few years, making the Pro Bowl in back-to-back years and being named a Second-Team All-Pro in 2018 and First-Team All-Pro in 2019.
Adams, 24, will presumably want his contract to make him the highest-paid safety in NFL history. With that in mind, the current highest-paid safety ever is Eddie Jackson of the Bears, who takes in $14.6 million per year. Adams will want more money than that on a deal north of five years, likely seeking a deal between $80 million and $100 million, which is a bit hefty for a safety. Of course, Adams is one of just two safeties from the 2017 draft class or later to be dubbed a First-Team All-Pro (along with Jackson).
This is a sticky situation for both sides. Adams has been extremely impressive at the age of 24 and deserves a lucrative deal. His stats are tantalizing, as in 46 games he has 12 sacks, two interceptions, six forced fumbles, and 210 solo tackles. He is one of the most electrifying players in the NFL which explains both why the Jets want him back and why he is holding out for a larger deal.
