Reportedly, the driving force behind Jamal Adams’ desire to leave New York was his desire for an extension to his rookie contract. It’s understandable, since he was eligible for the extension after three excellent seasons to start his career.
When Adams got his first wish, a Saturday trade from the Jets to the Seahawks, the next question was whether and how long an extension would follow. That question was answered by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, who reported Monday that Seattle and Adams had agreed that security would play the 2020 season on their existing deal, before entering the final year of their contract in 2021.
In the short term, the Seahawks will maintain flexibility with Adams remaining on his rookie contract with a modest cap of $ 3.59 million. However, in the long run, Adams will only get more expensive.
In recent history, we’ve seen trade-acquired star players use the considerable leverage they have to their advantage.
In 2018, Khalil Mack was acquired by the Bears in exchange for a team package that included two first-round teams. It was extended to a number that made it the highest-paid EDGE, topping the previous high by an AAV of $ 4.5 million.
Similarly, Laremy Tunsil, acquired for two first-round picks last summer, became the highest-paid tackle in the NFL in April, beating Lane Johnson’s previous high of $ 4 million.
Although Jalen Ramsey, brought to Los Angeles in exchange for two firsts, has yet to sign his extension, Rams head coach Sean McVay told reporters this offseason that Ramsey is the type of player who would “re-establish the corner market. ” Although Ramsey is an incredible player, he is simply the latest in a line of stellar players acquired by the trade using his clout to win record-setting deals.
Adams, like Mack and Ramsey, is among the best in his position. You will receive your first level contract, no doubt. Hell, he could miss the 2020 season and still get it. But the team’s decision to wait is where it could be (even more) expensive.
After the 2020 season, Adams will not be alone as insurance negotiating a new contract. In fact, almost all elite securities will either attack free agency without restriction or be eligible for an extension. Anthony Harris and Justin Simmons, both franchisees for 2020, will head towards the open market, along with Budda Baker and Marcus Williams. Meanwhile, Derwin James and Minkah Fitzpatrick will have an extension on their rookie offerings.
So while the cap on the security payment is at a $ 14.6 million AAV (Eddie Jackson) as of now, it may well have been restored four or five times by the time Adams and Seattle reach a deal. extension. What could have been said, $ 16 million per year, on an extension now, could be $ 18 million per year this time next year. Or $ 20 million. Adams will reset the top of your position, regardless of when you sign or what the current pace is. You have the perfect combination of leverage and talent, and your new deal will reflect just that.
Finally, wherever the deal comes, Adams will show it’s worth it. A pivotal player on and off the field, only disaster could make a long-term deal for Adams unfortunate. However, by waiting, the Seahawks are allowing the final price to rise in exchange for a short-term gain. Although the flexibility they result in is still limited, Seattle would be wise to use that additional flexibility and add another impact player. Otherwise, the short-term savings will have been in vain.
