Jets general manager Joe Douglas said he still wants Jamal Adams to be a Jet for life and they will have conversations about it soon.
“The plan is going to be to connect with Jamal at some point after the draft,” Douglas said on a conference call Monday.
Adams, the Jets star safety, wants a new contract and ESPN reported Friday that he does not plan on participating in the Jets’ offseason program because he is unhappy about his current deal. Douglas pointed out the offseason program, which is virtual this year, is voluntary. The program begins on April 27 for the Jets.
Douglas said in February that he wants Adams to be a Jet for life, something he said Monday has not changed. With the NFL Draft this week, there has been speculation that Adams could be traded. While Douglas said he will listen to offers, he is not planning on trading Adams.
“I’ve made it known that the plan would be for Jamal to be here long term,” Douglas said. “Again, I’ve also made it known that I have to do what’s in the best interest of this team. If other teams call to talk about players, I’ll listen. Going into this draft my intent isn’t to move any players. But if a team calls, we’re going to have conversations. I don’t view it as hedging. I view it as doing my job.”
In the past, Douglas has said only quarterback Sam Darnold is untouchable in a trade. He was asked Monday why Adams is not also untouchable since he is probably the best player on the team.
“I feel quarterback is the most important position in all of professional sports,” Douglas said. “I feel like we have a very good, young player in Sam Darnold. My opinion on Jamal has been consistent since I arrived here. Jamal is an unbelievable young player. That’s why our plan is to keep Jamal here a long time.”
