Jamal Adams to Sign Lions Practice Squad Contract Amid NFL Playoff Race

Veteran safety Jamal Adams is signing with the Detroit Lions' practice squad, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The three-time Pro Bowler made three appearances for the Tennessee Titans earlier this season before they released him in October. Schefter reported he "had been eyeing an opportunity with a playoff contender."

The Lions own the NFC's best record at 11-1 and can potentially see their lead atop the NFC North widen to three games.

Adams was an All-Pro and established himself as an elite safety by his third season, but he has been on a downward trajectory ever since. Injuries played a big role in that as he appeared in just 34 games across four seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, who acquired him in a blockbuster trade with the New York Jets.

The injuries are beginning to pile up for the Lions defense. In their 23-20 win over the Chicago Bears, they saw linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez and defensive linemen Josh Paschal and Levi Onwuzurike exit. Within the secondary, cornerback Carlton Davis had already been ruled out, while cornerback Emmanuel Moseley was a last-minute scratch.

The team needs to replenish its defensive depth for the home stretch of the regular season and playoffs.

Given his résumé, it's understandable why fans would get excited about the potential for Adams to play under head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.

The 29-year-old's brief spell with the Titans wasn't encouraging, though. He had four total tackles and was on the field for 20 total defensive snaps.

For Detroit, there's little downside to bringing him into the practice squad, but the upside might be limited too.