The New York Jets could be interested in trading Sam Darnold, but what is his value on the market?
The New York Jets are in a bind this offseason. Actually, they aren’t, but they’ll drag this out for as long as possible.
The addition of a new coaching staff means Sam Darnold’s time in the Big Apple could be up. Robert Saleh, Mike LaFleur and general manager Joe Douglas did not draft the former No. 3 overall pick. Therefore, they have no allegiance to keep him.
So, what does all this mean for Darnold?
The former USC quarterback is coming off a career-worst year in which he finished 2-10 as the starter and threw nine touchdowns against 11 interceptions. He’s 13-25 all-time, but two of those seasons were beyond lost in the Adam Gase era. Are the flashes just flashes or proof of what he can do with a competent offense?
Carson Wentz’s trade to Indianapolis lowered the price, but the Jets still could garner something on the open market. These three trade deals are likely what would be offered for Darnold’s services.
Three possible trades for Sam Darnold
3. Panthers upgrade from Teddy Bridgewater
Jets Get
Pick No. 73
2022 fourth-round pick
Panthers Get
QB Sam Darnold
2021 seventh-round pick
This one feels the least likely, but also not far out of the realm of possibility. The Carolina Panthers are certainly in the process of upgrading under center following owner David Tepper’s comments on “winning with the right quarterback” for the future.
Naturally, the plan right now is to go all-in on Deshaun Watson, whom the Houston Texans will consider trading for the right price. That’s going to be multiple first-round picks and perhaps a proven player or two. Is that worth Watson?
In the draft, the Panthers could hope Ohio State’s Justin Fields falls or North Dakota State’s Trey Lance loses interest around the team to land at the No. 8 spot. If not, Carolina likely is moving up into the top five by trading away two firsts and a third for unproven talent.
Carolina needs help on the offensive line and in the secondary. Darnold in Joe Brady’s system might help the Panthers’ offense reach new heights with the wide receivers and the run game in place. Best of all, Carolina would keep both their early selections to fix more pressing needs to contend in 2021.
Is it a reach? For sure. Is it impossible as a consolation prize? Nope.