The Green Bay Packers still need a safety. A free agent Jamal Adams could pair well with the team’s big signing in Xavier McKinney.
Sayre Bedinger with Dairyland Express listed free agents the Packers should pursue before the draft, including Justin Simmons and Mekhi Becton, as well as the under-the-radar veteran Adams.
Bedinger pointed out that Adams is one of the big-name free agents available and could help the team as a linebacker or dime defensive back.
Adams’ reputation has been overshadowed by the infamous trade between the New York Jets and Seattle Seahawks. However, the 28-year-old could still be a good signing for Green Bay’s defense.
Jamal Adams Is the Ultimate Buy-Low Free Agent
Adams had a disappointing year in the NFL, but this gives the Packers a chance to bring him in on a cheaper veteran deal to prove himself.
Before his NFL career, Adams was a standout for the LSU Tigers, earning two All-SEC selections and second-team All-American honors in 2016. During his college career, he made 209 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss, five interceptions, and two forced fumbles.
NFL scouts were impressed with Adams as a prospect, and the Jets selected him with the sixth pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. He quickly gained recognition in the league during his three seasons with the team.
However, Adams grew frustrated with the Jets and was traded to the Seahawks in 2020 for a large haul. In his first season in Seattle, he broke the single-season record for sacks by a defensive back, achieving 9.5.
Adams' 2022 season ended with a torn quad in Week 1, and he was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury at the end of 2023.
Injuries have prevented Adams from performing at his best level. However, if he can stay healthy in 2024, a team like the Packers could be making a great move in free agency.
Adams Fits Green Bay’s New Defensive Scheme
The Packers hired former Boston College head coach Jeff Hafley as their new defensive coordinator this offseason. The scheme that he’s bringing to Green Bay could be a perfect fit for Adams.
Hafley’s defensive scheme typically involves a post safety and a box safety. McKinney will likely fill more of the post safety role with his skill set, while Adams could fit well as the box safety for Green Bay.
When healthy, Adams can attack downhill and get into the backfield. His 9.5 sacks in 2020 demonstrate the impact he can have when asked to attack downhill, and he’s still just 28 years old.
The Packers could consider other options in free agency or the 2024 NFL Draft. Nevertheless, if Adams is willing to accept a cheaper short-term deal, he may be worth keeping an eye on.
