Titans Release Safety Jamal Adams After Failed Stint

The Tennessee Titans released safety Jamal Adams this week, at the defender’s request. Adams joined the Titans to reunite with defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson, but he only appeared in three games in a limited capacity.

Wilson, who worked with Adams as an assistant for the New York Jets, was courteous in his comments toward the safety after his release.

“At this point, wish Jamal all the best going forward, it just didn’t work out here,” Wilson told reporters. “He’ll have great success wherever he goes.”

When Adams was preparing for his first appearance with the Titans after overcoming numerous injuries in past seasons, he claimed to be eager to contribute to an improving defense. After just one start and three total appearances in six weeks, however, it became clear that he would not contribute nearly as much as he intended. This is reportedly what motivated him to request his release.

At age 29 and with an extensive injury history, Adams is not the player he made three straight Pro Bowl appearances for the Jets and Seahawks between 2018 and 2020. Still, he had enough to offer for the Titans to give him a chance in July, and he will likely earn more opportunities in the future.

Several early playoff contenders, like the Commanders and Buccaneers, have managed to compete well this season despite obvious weaknesses on defense. Adams could be a worthwhile addition for both teams. It’s also possible that the safety’s former teams come calling, as both the Seahawks and Jets are dealing with injures in their secondaries.

The exact details of Adams’ tenure with Tennessee, which included a trip to the reserve list, will likely be a red flag for some teams. The stint could have gone sour for personal reasons or regression on the field. Adams’ past success will earn him another chance, but his time with the Titans was a misstep for both parties.