Updated Feb. 19, 2026, 5:08 p.m. ET

When discussing pending free agents for New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey, running back Breece Hall and guard Alijah Vera-Tucker have been dominating the headlines.

They may be the most recognizable names, but they’re not all that matters. The Jets have a sizable 24 pending unrestricted free agents.

One of the intriguing players is safety Tony Adams.

The 2022 undrafted free agent is on an expiring contract. According to ESPN, Adams is slated to draw significant interest from NFL teams on the open market.

As noted, Adams is a three-year starter for the Jets. The former Illinois standout appeared in 12 games this past season.

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Adams registered 49 tackles and five pass breakups. He was even more productive in 2023 and 2024, when he recorded 80-plus tackles in each season (and four total interceptions).

The Jets also have safeties Andre Cisco and Isaiah Oliver on expiring contracts. Sweeping changes may be coming to the defensive backfield. It’s needed, after a terrible 2025 season that netted zero interceptions. The Jets will have sophomore Malachi Moore at safety in 2026, and he figures to be a big part of Aaron Glenn’s plans.

Adams has been an underappreciated member of the Jets. He appears slated to cash in via free agency.