It seems strange to say that a player who was selected with the No. 6 pick in the NFL Draft “fell,” but many believe that was the case with former LSU safety Jamal Adams.

The All-American was considered by many to be one of the top three players in the draft, with some team scouts reportedly admitting he was part of a small group of prospects who checked all of the boxes. Not only is Adams a standout safety who is a stout run defender and capable in coverage, he is a leader who can become a critical factor in creating and maintaining a culture.

In his introductory press conference for the New York Jets, Adams was asked about his leadership abilities.

“It’s always been natural,” Adams responded when asked if his leadership was something he worked to develop. “Since Day 1, I just try to lead by example on and off the field, do the right things and always compete hard.”

While the transition to the NFL can be very challenging, even for players from the mighty SEC, personal qualities like leadership remain constant no matter the caliber of opposition. Adams’ father played for the New York Giants in the NFL, so the safety has a small understanding of the type of lifestyle a football player has in the bright lights of the big city.

As a rookie, Adams understands he must earn the respect of the Jets’ veterans. Once he earns that respect, however, Adams is ready to help propel his team to the next level.

“All I can do, as a rookie, is come in and earn the respect of my teammates and the coaching staff, learn the playbook and hopefully make plays for the organization,” he said at his press conference. “It’s going to be about us, that’s never going to change; it’s a team sport. All 53 players on the roster have to buy in and be on the same page.”

For now, Adams is focused on integrating into the culture of his new team and meeting his new teammates. There’s still a long way to go until the beginning of the NFL season, but the rookie will be tested against some of the very best the game has to offer.

“As soon as I got drafted, (Gronk) was one of the first people I thought about, as well as the G.O.A.T, Tom Brady,” Adams said when asked about playing New England and covering Rob Gronkowski. “Tremendous respect for those guys, for that organization. All I can do is come in and work as hard as I can, listen to the coaching staff, and hopefully, they’ll have me ready.”