Seahawks' star player, Jamal Adams, contemplated the idea of retiring after injury

Seattle Seahawks safety Jamal Adams, who is poised to make his 2023 debut on Monday night against the New York Giants, disclosed that he briefly contemplated retirement immediately after sustaining a serious leg injury in last season's opener. Speaking to reporters on Friday for the first time since tearing his left quadriceps tendon, Adams candidly reflected on his emotional response to the news that his season was over and how he found himself in a state of despair. Reflecting on his thought process during that period, Adams mentioned that retirement crossed his mind due to the numerous injuries he has suffered over the past three seasons, which have taken a toll on him mentally. Apart from the torn quad tendon, Adams has endured two torn shoulder labrums as well as less significant injuries to his groin, elbow, and fingers. Since joining the Seahawks in a blockbuster trade in 2020, he has missed 28 of a possible 53 regular-season games after missing only two games in his first three seasons with the New York Jets. Adams expressed the dark emotions he experienced during that time, emphasizing that he wasn't contemplating anything suicidal but was going through a challenging period, mentally distancing himself from football and isolating himself from people. Adams' objective has always been to return in Week 4 against the Giants. Recognizing that his recovery would keep him on the sidelines throughout the summer and prevent him from participating in the preseason, he estimated that he would need at least three weeks of practice during the regular season to prepare for games. Furthermore, Monday night's game will mark his first time playing at MetLife Stadium since being traded. Adams returned to practice in Week 2 after being activated off the physically unable to perform list on August 24. He only participated in walk-throughs until then. The Seahawks listed him as a full participant on Thursday and Friday. Coach Pete Carroll confirmed at the start of the week that Adams would not face any limitations, but when asked about potentially limiting his snaps in his first game in over a year, defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt stated that they would assess the situation as they go along. Adams suffered his injury in the first half of the 2022 opener when he planted his left foot while reaching for a scrambling Russell Wilson. The sight of his kneecap dislocated from its usual position was devastating for Adams. He tried to run off the field, but upon reaching the sideline, he realized something was seriously wrong. Subsequently, he underwent surgery a week later and spent more than 20 weeks in a straight cast. During that period, he relied on assistance to perform daily tasks such as getting out of bed, using the bathroom, and showering. Monday night's game will unveil the Seahawks' plan to restore Adams to his 2020 form, in which he set the single-season record for sacks by a defensive back with 9.5 in 12 games. In contrast, he failed to record a sack in 12 games in 2021 and played less than a half in 2022 due to injuries. Adams expressed his excitement about returning to physicality after an extended period without contact. He emphasized that he will not take any play, moment, or second for granted, appreciating even the simplest actions such as flying with his teammates, speaking to the media, and sitting in team meetings. Having undergone a humbling experience, Adams declared that his mindset is now sharper, and he looks forward to the upcoming journey, season, and the joy of being back on the field.