Jamal Adams praised in ESPN poll as NFL's top safety
It isn’t a shock that Jamal Adams is considered the NFL’s top safety. But it is simply further proof that Adams is a transcendent star and one capable of changing games.
To say that 2019 was a breakout year for Adams would be wrong as the New York Jets safety has had two previously very good years in the league and has been building upon each season. But what last year showcased was that Adams is not only dominant but also versatile. It was known that he is tremendous against the pass and instinctive in helping the run.
And yet last year was evidence of a player who is a jackknife, capable of being lined up all over the field and being effective. His ability to get to the quarterback and be a true wrecking ball on the field was nothing short of remarkable.
In a poll of league decision makers and management conducted by ESPN.com, it was no surprise to see Adams at the top of their ranking at safety. Entering his fourth season in the league, Adams was an All-Pro last year and has made consecutive Pro Bowl appearances.
ESPN's Jeremy Flower cited one NFL executive as saying that Adams is “the second best defensive player in football.” In their praise for the Jets star, another executive said he was a “Superb athlete, tough, intelligent.”
Some of the praise for Adams was reminiscent of that which was said about former Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis. Nicknamed ‘Revis Island,’ the idea is similar for Adams in that he is a presence on the field who cannot be ignored.
Adams, however, is so versatile that he is a weapon on the defensive side of the ball.
All this praise certainly is proof positive that Adams not only deserves a new contract (he is still on his rookie contract) but should become the highest-paid player in the NFL. Whether that happens or not, remains to be seen.
On the flip side, the kudos from around the NFL show a market for Adams should the Jets need to trade their safety if they are unable to reach a long-term deal. Adams clearly has his admirers around the league and a poll like this shows that he is certainly worthy of a hefty return if the Jets need to trade him.
To read the complete poll including the top 10 safeties in the league, click here.
