(7 Minute Read)
Tony Adams is a second year Safety for the exciting and quickly emerging New York Jets. Undrafted out of Illinois in 2022, Adams proved his talent and worth amongst a skilled defensive back core that took the league by storm last year. Gearing up for just his second season in the NFL, Adams will be in line for considerable playing time and a chance to help lead a stellar Jets team to their first playoff berth in over 10 years.
We were lucky enough to sit down with Tony prior to the start of the season to discuss adapting to life in the NFL, proving yourself as an undrafted free agent, and expectations for this season and beyond. Tony is an exceptional person both on and off the field and we thoroughly admire his humbleness and work ethic.
Lining up at Safety in his rookie campaign at Metlife, circa 2022
It was less than two years ago that you failed to hear your name called at the 2022 NFL Draft, and yet you have made the most of this short opportunity with the Jets by quickly demonstrating your skill and dedication, putting yourself in position to make a significant impact for the team this year. How did going undrafted fuel your competitive nature and bring out the most in you in training camp?
Tony: I think going undrafted just was a reality check to me. I came to grips with myself and understood that no one believed in me. No team thought I was good enough to be drafted, so I needed to work harder. I decided to work on my flaws and turn them into strengths. Also, it taught me it don’t matter who don’t believe in me, my family does and it’s people back in STL that want to see me win.
Tell us about life in the NFL. Is it what you expected? What is the biggest surprise thus far?
Tony: Life in the NFL is different than most people think. I think people get caught into the glamour of the life & the televised stuff but it’s really a lot of hard work. It’s a lot of hours studying, being alone with your thoughts, and a lot of learning trying to perfect to detail, but it’s all worth it. I wouldn’t change it for a second nothing.
How does playing alongside guys like Sauce Gardner (2022 Defensive Rookie of the Year) and Aaron Rodgers (4 time NFL MVP) help you learn and develop as a young player?
Tony: Sauce and Arod are both great to be around and we have a lot more great players. Being around those guys and competing with Arod everyday just makes you want to be better. It gives you an idea of where you are and where you need to grow. Also, seeing those two it’s like motivation. They are some of the best in the league, and Arod is a future hall of famer and I inspire to get to their level one day!!
An impressive training camp has put Adams in line for a break out sophomore season
In a 17 game season, you will play at least 8 games on the road. What do you like most about travelling so often as an athlete? What don't you like as much?
Tony: To be honest, I love away games more than home games. I love the booing. I love hostility. It just reminds me of life and of being counted out. I thrive in those atmospheres. Next, I love away games because you don’t have all the meetings. You get a lot of alone time.
What are some ways you stay healthy, both mentally and physically, when you are on the road?
Tony: The way I stay healthy on the road is getting away from everyone. I believe everyone has a set route and mine is I like to get away and be with my own mind. I spend a lot time with myself and my thoughts and I just trying to make sure I'm mentally ready for the challenge soon to come.
We all have one or two notable travel stories we love to tell our friends and family. Can you share one memorable travel related story from your time in the NFL?
Tony: I really don’t have a travel story. I’m not gone lie when we travel I’m pretty quiet in the back just with my headphones on. I don’t talk much. (the silent assassin, we like that)
Short Responses
- Window or aisle? Aisle to stretch my legs
- What do you typically do on the plane to pass the time? I like to sleep to pass time
- What is your favorite stadium to play in? Minnesota
- What is your least favorite ballpark to play in? New England (it was so cold lol)
U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Follow Tony on Instagram (@ta06_) and check out this year's New York Jets regular season schedule here.