Raiders Rekindle with Jamal Adams to Fortify Secondary Ahead of Training Camp
Las Vegas, NV – July 22, 2025** — In a pivotal move ahead of training camp, the Las Vegas Raiders announced today the signing of veteran safety Jamal Adams, a three-time Pro Bowl honoree known for his dynamic playmaking and physical presence in the secondary. The addition of Adams reunites him with coach Pete Carroll, under whom he played for the Seattle Seahawks from 2020 to 2023.
Originally selected sixth overall by the New York Jets in 2017, Adams quickly emerged as one of the premier safeties in the league. He registered at least 115 tackles in both 2018 and 2019, earned two All‑Pro nods (2018 second-team, 2019 first-team), and secured three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018 to 2020. In 2020, Adams made history with a staggering 9.5 sacks—the most ever in a season by a defensive back.
After being traded to the Seahawks in 2020 in exchange for two first-round picks, Adams reached the peak of his influence but also battled a series of injuries: a torn labrum in 2021, a torn quad tendon in 2022, and a concussion in 2023. These setbacks confined him to just 34 games with Seattl. A subsequent stint with the Tennessee Titans and Detroit Lions provided a chance to regain form, though health concerns persisted.
Despite these challenges, the Raiders are betting on a healthy, reenergized Adams. Insider Jordan Schultz shared that Adams is in “excellent shape and the healthiest he’s been in years”. The acquisition is part of a broader defensive upgrade ahead of camp, which also saw the addition of cornerback JT Woods and guard Antonio Mafi, strengthening both the secondary and offensive line.
Las Vegas enters camp with a secondary in flux; as many as five Week 1 starters could be new faces this season. Adams will compete for one of the two safety positions alongside Jeremy Chinn, Isaiah Pola‑Mao, Lonnie Johnson Jr., and others. With a career stat line that includes over 500 tackles, 21.5 sacks, 36 passes defended**, and **seven forced fumbles, his experience is a clear boon.
Inside the locker room: Adams brings not only talent but leadership. The Raiders were drawn to his work ethic and locker-room presence—qualities Carroll understands well from their time together in Seattle. Additionally, Adams’ familiarity with Carroll’s defensive system could accelerate his adaptation and impact on-field.
The gamble: The move is not without risk. Adams has struggled to stay on the field, appearing in only 15 games over the past three years. But if he stays healthy, his communication, versatility, and big-play ability could transform a secondary that showed vulnerability last season.
Bottom line: By reuniting Jamal Adams with Pete Carroll, the Raiders are doubling down on a strategy that blends proven veteran leadership with youthful talent. As they prepare for camp, all eyes will be on whether Adams can reignite his elite form and help solidify Las Vegas’ defensive backfield.