Adonai Mitchell, a second-year receiver who recently joined the Jets on a loan deal alongside Sauce Gardner and the Colts, spoke with Post columnist Steve Serby in a recent Q&A.
Q: When did you first learn about your type 1 diabetes diagnosis?
A: Interestingly, I think I had it for around three months before it actually came to light. I was showing all the symptoms: a lot of urination, major weight loss, and just feeling dehydrated all the time. And funny enough, just a month prior, on February 1, 2019, I was in a health class about diabetes. Ironically, I was experiencing it myself but had no clue. I was so tired, I ended up dozing off during the class. I found out officially on February 1, 2019. My only question for the doctor was, “Can I still play soccer?” He reassured me that as long as I took care of myself, I could live a normal life. So, I suppose that’s why I didn’t think it was too serious (laughs). In my view, if you take care of yourself, you can lead a regular life like anyone else.
Q: How do you manage it?
A: I use Dexcom… a lot of insulin and quite a few injections. I’m looking into getting a pump—I tried one out this offseason. It’s called an Omnipod, which works with the Dexcom monitor to deliver insulin gradually without needing injections all the time. I’m excited to try it out during the offseason. I think it could be a big step for me.
Q: What’s your current treatment routine?
A: Just insulin.
Q: How often do you need it?
A: It varies. I take it at every meal and once before bed. It’s not too bad, honestly.
Q: Do you self-administer injections?
A: Yes, I check my blood sugar and inject when needed.
Q: How would you describe your mentality on the field?
A: I just like to have fun. It’s a game after all. The preparation we do during the week—whether it’s drills or watching film—allows us to enjoy the actual game. Once you’re out there, you can trust in your skills. I feel confident in what I do, and that mindset really helps to relieve stress. There’s no point in worrying because you’ve already put in the work.
Q: What motivates you?
A: I believe God has given me strength for this sport. Mentally, I can process and apply what I learn on the field. I feel blessed, and not maximizing my potential would be a disservice to myself and to the game.
Q: Can you name the ten receivers drafted before you in 2024?
A: Sure! Marv [Marvin Harrison Jr], Malik [Nabers], Rome [Odunze], Keon [Coleman], [Xavier] Leggett, [Ricky] Pearsall, [Rudd], [McConkey], [Ja’Lynn] Pork…
Q: One last thing—he’s playing for the Jaguars.
A: Oh, BT [Brian Thomas Jr.]. We actually share the same birthday.
Q: So, that pushes you in some way?
A: Definitely. Last year, I think I focused on it a bit more. What’s done is in the past; now it’s all about making the most of the opportunities I have.
Q: You visited the Jets before the draft. Did you think they would pick you?
A: Yes, honestly. I wanted to show them why they should draft a receiver (laughs).
Q: What did you tell them? Draft me?
A: Yeah (laughs). The draft is complex with many moving parts.
Q: Did you envision playing alongside Garrett Wilson?
A: Absolutely. It reminds me of playing with Xavier Worthy at Texas. He brought a similar explosiveness. Honestly, I think we were the best duo in college. Facing SEC teams back then, we always had to strategize against tough defenses (laughs). I feel like with Garrett, if people can spread out the defense, they’d see just how capable he is. Whether we’re lined up together or in separate positions, it complicates things for defenders. Plus, with our strong run game and a top-notch running back [Breece Hall], it creates tense situations for opponents.
Q: What impresses you most about Garrett’s on-field performance?
A: His routes are something I admire. I pride myself on my route-running, and he’s just explosive. He has a fantastic burst off the line. He’s like a baseball player—well-experienced from high school to pro ball. He’s ready for anything.
Q: Tell me about John Metchie III, who joined the team from the Eagles before you signed.
A: I faced Metchie before and didn’t particularly like him back at Baylor. He got us good (laughs). But now, knowing his journey and seeing him grow gives me immense respect for him. He’s very knowledgeable. Earlier, we had a conversation about route releases. He’s a smooth runner with excellent spatial awareness. Right after he catches a pass, he seems to know where everyone is on the field. His character makes him even more admirable.
Q: Can you walk me through that moment when you dropped the ball at the end of a long catch against the Colts?
A: Honestly, at the time, I wasn’t really listening to anyone else. My parents were just being supportive.
Q: You have a twin, right?
A: (laughs) Yes, my daughter, Icylinn. She was born on June 21, 2021. That was my primary reason for going back to Texas [in 2023]—to be more present in her life. I wanted to ensure she has what I had growing up. Many friends of mine grew up without a father, so I want to give her what I was blessed with. Initially, people thought I was after money, but once they realized my motivations were family-driven, they respected that. It felt like the right move for me.
Q: Where is she now?
A: She’s in Nashville with her mom.
Q: Your father experienced homelessness in Central Park for a year.
A: I’m the youngest of four, so I probably didn’t hear all those stories until after I arrived. He had a tough road; he has shared stories countless times. He was on a difficult path, trying to achieve things, becoming a comedian, and finding his way. I’ll have to revisit those stories (laughs). When he last mentioned them, I was probably around 12. His goal was to support his family, giving them more than what he had.
Q: What’s your favorite movie?
A: “Life.”
Q: Who’s your favorite actor?
A: Denzel Washington.
Q: Favorite entertainer or musician?
A: Future.
Q: What’s your go-to food?
A: Breakfast.
Q: What are your thoughts on Aaron Glenn?
A: I really like AG. He embodies what a player’s coach should be. He motivates us and brings the team together. If AG says the sky is purple, well, then it is because we trust his leadership completely.
Q: How do you feel about playing in New York under the spotlight?
A: Honestly, I don’t think any stage is too big for me. It feels just right (laughs).
Q: How good do you think you can become?
A: I think I’ll hold back from making any big claims (laughs). But I do believe I’m better than a lot of people, and that’s a goal of mine.
Q: What message would you like to share with Jets fans about Adonai Mitchell?
A: Really, just turn on the TV on Sundays.
