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Pagano Expects Mike Adams to Maintain Last Year’s Success, Even More

By Luke Schultheis

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It was almost a year ago, when the Indianapolis Colts signed veteran safety Mike Adams to a 1-year deal. Since then, Adams had a renaissance season for the Colts, tying the NFL lead with 7 takeaways and making his 1st career Pro Bowl. The 12-year veteran was then rewarded with a new 2-year contract from the team this offseason.

However, despite turning 34 years old in March, his head coach in Chuck Pagano still expects Adams to maintain last year’s success:

"“He’s always played with a chip on his shoulder,” said Pagano. “He’s bounced around like a lot of guys do in this league. He’s probably been told his entire career he’s this, he’s that, he’s not fast enough, he’s not big enough, he’s not whatever. But he’s found a way to carve out a pretty good career.” “But he’s always hungry, and he takes care of himself,” added Pagano. “He trains really well. Still moves around really well. He’s a smart guy. He’s a tough guy. He’s reliable. He’s accountable.”"

Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Indianapolis Colts safety Mike Adams (29) against the Denver Broncos in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Colts defeated the Broncos 24-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

One of the veteran leaders of the defense, Adams started all 16 games for the Colts last season, recording 87 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles. He was nothing short of a revelation, as he was originally signed to provide veteran insurance, not necessarily to serve even as a starter. When injuries struck at safety, Adams was thrust back into a starting role and the rest is Colts history.

However, Pagano doesn’t just expect Adams to maintain last year’s success, he expects him to have even more success entering into his 2nd year with the Colts:

"“And then another year in the system, he’s that much further along as far as terminology and scheme, and knowing that stuff,” said Pagano. “I think some of the thinking stuff is going to go away, and he’ll be able to play even faster and direct traffic even at a higher level.”"

Given his greater familiarity with the Colts defensive system and scheme, Adams won’t have to think as much. Rather, he can do what he does best, as Pagano so eloquently put it:

“Just go play.”

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