Footballs on a football field
Footballs on a football field Paolo Aldrighetti/Unsplash

Jamal Adams, the former All-Pro safety and one-time highest-paid defensive back in the NFL, has officially signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, the team announced on 22 July 2025. The move reunites Adams with head coach Pete Carroll, under whom he previously played for the Seattle Seahawks. The veteran defender joins a reshaped Raiders secondary during training camp, hoping to revive his once-dominant form after years marred by injuries.

Jamal Adams Injury History: From All-Pro to Comeback Hopeful

Adams was drafted sixth overall by the New York Jets in the 2017 NFL Draft and quickly rose to prominence. He earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018 to 2020 and was named First-Team All-Pro in 2019. In 2020, following a trade to the Seattle Seahawks, he set an NFL record for most sacks by a defensive back in a single season.

His success earned him a four-year, $70 million (£51.7 million) contract extension in 2021, with $38 million (£28.1 million) guaranteed, making him the highest-paid safety at the time. However, the investment was followed by setbacks. Adams suffered multiple injuries over the next four seasons, including shoulder, groin and quadriceps tendon issues. Since 2021, he has played in only 27 games combined for the Seahawks, Titans and Lions.

Raiders Secondary Rebuild: Where Jamal Adams Fits into the 2025 Defence

The Raiders have revamped their secondary for 2025, adding Jamal Adams, Jeremy Chinn and Isaiah Pola‑Mao to replace key free-agent losses. With Pete Carroll bringing a Seattle-style defence to Las Vegas, Adams' familiarity with the system and success in blitz-heavy schemes could give him an edge in the battle for a starting role.

Jamal Adams Stats Breakdown: Can He Return to Pro Bowl Form with Raiders?

Adams' career statistics highlight his value as a disruptive playmaker. In 85 career games, he has logged 501 total tackles, 21.5 sacks, 36 passes defended and four interceptions. His standout 2020 season featured 83 tackles, 9.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss.

However, Adams has not recorded an interception since the 2019 season, and his productivity has declined due to limited availability. Still, his historic production and versatility make him a high-upside addition if he can remain healthy.

Jamal Adams Injury Comeback: Is He Fit Enough for Raiders 2025 Season?

NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that Adams is in 'excellent shape' and is the 'healthiest he's been in years. 'As reported by NBC Sports, the 29-year-old safety recently posted a video on social media showcasing his fitness and noted that he's in the best physical condition of his career. The Raiders' medical and coaching staff will closely monitor his performance during camp to determine whether he can withstand regular-season demands.

Adams will need to demonstrate both durability and explosiveness to secure a starting spot. His contract details have not yet been publicly disclosed, but the Raiders are likely structuring it with incentives tied to performance and availability.

Pete Carroll's Defence: Jamal Adams Role in the Raiders' 2025 Scheme

Carroll's defensive philosophy relies heavily on aggressive coverage, hybrid safety roles and physical tackling. Adams' skill set aligns with this style, particularly in the strong safety position or as a roaming linebacker in nickel formations.

With several new additions to the Raiders' secondary, including Jeremy Chinn and Lonnie Johnson Jr., Adams will be competing in a deep group. His veteran experience, paired with his previous success under Carroll, suggests that he could be a valuable contributor if he returns to form.

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