‘A JET FOR LIFE’

GM makes it clear the plan is to keep Adams in Green

INDIANAPOLIS — Four months after Jamal Adams expressed his discontent about being embroiled in trade rumors, the Jets made their first public acknowledgment that he’s not going anywhere. Maybe ever.

General manager Joe Douglas made it clear that he wants Adams to be a pillar for the franchise during this critical stage.

“Jamal is an unbelievable player…” Douglas said at the NFL Scouting Combine on Tuesday. “We’re excited about Jamal. The plan is for Jamal to be a Jet for life.”

Douglas entertained and engaged in trade conversations involving Adams before the trade deadline, prompting the player to publicly voice his annoyance and frustration. Douglas later called it a miscommunication, but it took several days for the angst between Adams and team decision makers to thaw. The Cowboys and Ravens were among the most serious suitors for Adams, who has been the engine of the team for the past two seasons.

The two-time Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro made it clear in the second half of the season and past few months that he wants to be a foundation piece for a franchise that is mired in a nine-year playoff drought. He also made it clear that he expects to land a new deal this offseason.

Douglas didn’t give a timeline on when he anticipates a new deal for Adams, who has two years remaining on his rookie deal. The Jets could theoretically make Adams play 2020 on the fourth-year of his rookie contract, 2021 on his fifth-year option and 2022 on the franchise tag.

But that might prompt a Civil War on One Jets Drive.

“We’ve had some preliminary talks with his agent,” Douglas said. “I’m not going to get into specifics of that. But again, the plan is for Jamal to be here a long time.”

The Bears recently signed safety Eddie Jackson to a fouryear, $58 million extension that included $22 million at signing and $13.1 million cash earning in 2020. Washington’s Landon Collins is scheduled to earn $16 million this season.

Adams, who was a force in 14 games last season in Gregg Williams’ scheme (6 ½ sacks, 61 tackles, seven pass deflections, two forced fumbles, 1 pick-six), should look to become the league’s highest-paid safety.

He’s certainly earned it.