The New York Jets could be making a change under center this offseason, but it could be some time before that becomes known.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the Jets–who own the No. 2 overall pick–will “complete their evaluations” of top draft prospects at the quarterback position prior to making a decision on Sam Darnold.
The #Jets are planning to complete their evaluations of the top QBs in the NFL Draft before making any decisions on Sam Darnold, sources say. That includes Pro Days and interviews. While they’ve received real interest in Darnold, they want to get the full QB picture first.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 22, 2021
In all likelihood, Trevor Lawrence will go No. 1 overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars. That means the Jets will likely have to choose from a crop including BYU's Zach Wilson, Ohio State's Justin Fields and North Dakota State's Trey Lance.
It stands to reason the Jets would do their due diligence. But they might also risk devaluing Darnold in terms of a potential trade market.
Teams with quarterback needs might simply resort to fillers by signing veterans like Cam Newton or Andy Dalton. Former Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky could offer teams another option should they see more upside there.
Then again, there is no indication the Jets are truly intent on moving Darnold.
The former USC star took a step back in 2020, completing under 60 percent of his pass attempts and throwing just nine touchdowns against 11 interceptions. However, Darnold might show improvement under a new coaching staff, and the Jets could give him more weapons by selecting a top wideout like Alabama star and Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith.
Regardless, it seems general manager Joe Douglas has no intention of rushing into a decision. The Jets will see whether they take special interest in a quarterback prospect before hashing out plans for Darnold.