Professional Football Player. Adams, born Samuel Edward Adams, played offensive guard in the National Football League for the New England Patriots from 1972 to 1980 and for the New Orleans Saints in 1981. He played for Prairie View A&M before being selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1971 Supplemental Draft and then joining the New England Patriots in 1972 after being claimed off waivers from Dallas.  Adams was a mainstay for the Patriots’ offensive line, helping form one of the most formidable offensive lines in pro football during the years 1972 to 1980, playing in 119 games with 90 starts.    He helped the Patriots make the playoffs in 1976 and 1978 (when they won the AFC East division title).   Adams earned a spot on the Patriots 1970s All-Decade team for his outstanding play.  He joined the New Orleans Saints in 1981 before retiring at the end of that season.   Adams is the father of Sam Adams Jr., who played 14 seasons in the National Football League.  (bio by: Mr. Badger Hawkeye)