Jamal Adams Signs with Vikings: A New Chapter at Linebacker
Three-time Pro Bowler Jamal Adams is on the move again, signing with the Minnesota Vikings on Monday, as reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz. The veteran safety-turned-linebacker announced the deal on social media, posting “Year 10” alongside the Vikings’ “skol” hashtag. This marks Adams’ sixth team since entering the NFL in 2017, and he joins Minnesota just ahead of training camp for the 2026 season.
Adams, who played college football at LSU and was drafted by the New York Jets in 2017, has built a reputation for versatility. Last season with the Las Vegas Raiders, he appeared in all 17 regular-season games for the first time since 2018, recording 45 tackles (30 solo). However, his role shifted significantly: Adams primarily played linebacker rather than his traditional safety position. This positional flexibility is expected to give him a strong chance to earn a role with the Vikings, who may utilize him in a hybrid capacity.
The move to Minnesota comes after a nine-year career that has seen Adams earn Pro Bowl honors three times. While he struggled with injuries in previous seasons, his durability in 2025—playing a full slate of games—suggests he has found a sustainable niche at linebacker. The Vikings, known for their aggressive defensive schemes under coordinator Brian Flores, could benefit from Adams’ experience and physicality. His ability to rush the passer, cover tight ends, and stop the run makes him a valuable asset as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Adams’ signing adds depth to a Vikings defense that already features standout players like safety Harrison Smith and linebacker Jordan Hicks. With training camp set to begin, Adams will have the opportunity to compete for a starting role or serve as a key rotational piece. For a player who has bounced between teams and positions, this latest chapter in Minnesota represents a chance to solidify his legacy as a versatile defensive weapon. As Adams himself put it, “Year 10” is underway, and the Vikings are hoping it’s a productive one.
Shimanta Das 