On Monday, the Minnesota Vikings announced that veteran safety and part‑time linebacker Jamal Adams has been placed on injured reserve. The move follows his exit from a preseason game on a cart, where medical staff later diagnosed a torn tendon in his right quadriceps.
Coach emphasizes mentorship during rehab
Head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters before practice that Adams will undergo surgery and stay in Minnesota for his rehabilitation. O’Connell added that keeping Adams local will allow him to mentor the team’s younger players, reinforcing the veteran’s role beyond the field.
Adams’ career highlights and injury history
Selected sixth overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, Adams has earned three Pro Bowl selections and was named an All‑Pro in 2019 while playing for the New York Jets. After a trade to the Seattle Seahawks, he set an NFL season record for sacks by a defensive back with 9½ in 2020. Injuries have limited his availability in recent years, and Minnesota marks his fifth team in four seasons. He previously tore his left quadriceps in the 2022 season opener.
Transitioning to a part‑time linebacker role with the Las Vegas Raiders last year, Adams has accumulated 55 tackles for loss, 22½ sacks, eight forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries and four interceptions over his career. In the two‑plus weeks since signing with the Vikings, he made a noticeable impact on defense before the injury occurred in his first exhibition game.
Team moves and roster notes
Following Adams’ injury, the Vikings also announced the signing of cornerback Bryce Phillips, an undrafted free agent who entered the league with the Kansas City Chiefs after this year’s draft. Phillips’ brother, Clark Phillips III, currently plays cornerback for the Atlanta Falcons after a standout collegiate career at Utah.
What’s next for Adams and the Vikings
Adams, now 30, will begin a recovery program in Minnesota, giving the coaching staff an opportunity to integrate his experience into the locker room while he works toward a return next season. The Vikings will rely on their depth at safety and linebacker while they continue to evaluate roster options for the upcoming regular season.
Fans and teammates alike expressed optimism that Adams’ presence, even off the field, will help shape the defensive unit’s development. As the Vikings prepare for their first regular‑season game, the organization remains focused on building a competitive roster despite the setback.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
