A Dawson County 2020 graduate (during the wild COVID season), Seth Adams has had his fair share of twists and turns. His journey has seen him suit up for four different universities since leaving Dawsonville, but he’s now playing for a high DI level program in San Diego State University.

“It’s been a wild journey for sure, but I’m thankful for every opportunity that I’ve had throughout the years and believe they have all correlated into the player and man I am today,” says Seth. “I started at the University of the Cumberlands as a 300-lb out of shape offensive lineman on a partial scholarship. That’s where I learned that if I want anything in life I have to work for it. I remember running sprints in the snow while everyone else slept in the dorms there. I transformed my body to 230 lbs, then built back to a strong 260-265 the right way. At Kennesaw State, I switched from tackle to tight end during their transition from the triple option, and that’s where I got the nickname ‘The Boogeyman’ for my physicality on the field. After a redshirt year, I decided to go to Southeastern Louisiana to come in and compete at a high FCS level where Coach Jenkins and Coach Scelfo continued to develop me into an all-around tight end. Each stop from NAIA to Division I has taught me discipline, versatility, and grit. Now that I’m at San Diego State, I still have that chip on my shoulder, ready to continue to prove myself and go on to the next level.”

At the University of the Cumberlands (NAIA), Adams played two seasons, starting 17 games at offensive line. He even earned academic all-conference honors in 2021. He then went to Kennesaw State from 2022-23, during which he made that position transition. Then came Southeastern Louisiana, where Adams played 20 games at the FCS level, including all 12 games in 2024 as a primary run-blocking TE. Something bigger was in store next.

“San Diego State has been an absolute blessing so far, adds Seth. “The opportunity came when I entered the portal following last season at SE Louisiana. Going into the portal I had a lot of offers including from bigger schools, but ultimately chose to play at SDSU because of the culture coach Sean Lewis and Coach Lindley have here. I remember it felt different – more personable than other schools recruiting me. I remember Coach Lindley calling my mom and dad on Christmas Day to just talk. A coach told me a long time ago to go where you’re celebrated and that’s how I feel playing for the Aztecs!”

The 2025 season is his final one at the college level, but he’s got some lofty goals in mind.

“My goals this season are simple,” states Adams. “I want to win the Mountain West Championship, I want to be known as the most physical tight end/fullback in the country, and I want to continue to prove everyone wrong that’s ever doubted me. I want to dedicate this season to my mom and dad also. They’re my ‘WHY.’ Growing up I’ve seen them go without so that me and my brother could always go with, and I’m very thankful for them – they deserve the world. After this season, I will be declaring for the NFL Draft. Once my playing career is over, I’m going to become an NIL agent and help athletes like myself navigate through the changing college football landscape.”

One thing’s for sure, while Adams has left so much on the field and given a lot to his teammates and the game, it’s arguably given him even more in return.

“This game has given me so much throughout the years,” says Seth. “I respect every aspect about the game and believe that whatever type of work you put into it is the result you’ll get out of it; whether that’s nutrition, film study, or lifting weights. It’s been an outlet for me to put all my worries and problems going on aside and just line it up and play with my brothers. The biggest thing that it has taught me about life is that if you want something, you have to go out and get it. I’ve never been the most athletic player or the biggest, but I have the burning desire to do whatever it takes to change my circumstances and level up whether that’s in football or in life.”

Adams was a standout lineman for Dawson County from 2017-20, and was a 2nd Team All-Region selection.

A favorite quote of Adams: “Beware the quiet man. For while others speak, he watches. And while others act, he plans. And when they finally rest…he strikes”