The change comes amid the hiring of a new commissioner for the two conferences.
The Nittany Lions are represented by nominees Ki-Jana Carter, D.J. Dozier, and Paul Posluszny.
Ford will head to Notre Dame with two years of eligibility remaining.
Adams spent seven seasons at Villanova before joining the Denver Broncos in 2022.
With only 110 days left before the Nittany Lions' season opener against West Virginia, Penn State announced themes for all seven of its home games on Monday.
The trophy honors accomplishments by collegiate defenders on and off the field.