The New York Jets are still considering their options with respect to quarterback Sam Darnold.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported there is a general expectation the Jets–owners of the No. 2 pick in the 2021 NFL draft–will move Darnold at some point. However, he noted the Jets do not “need” to trade Darnold given his value is not at its highest. New York might explore retaining Darnold and seeing if he can improve his value.
Rapoport also explained the picture might become clearer upon further examinations of BY quarterback Zach Wilson's shoulder.
From NFL Now: Breaking down the latest on the Sam Darnold situation, taking into account Josh McCown's comments, and what #Jets ultimate leverage is… pic.twitter.com/gjHCsedwch
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 5, 2021
Wilson generated a lot of buzz with his Pro Day last weekend and could well be New York's selection at the No. 2 spot. That does not necessarily mean Darnold is headed elsewhere, but it could complicate things.
On the one hand, the Jets can head into the season knowing they are unlikely to pick up Darnold's fifth-year option. He might even increase his value with some strong starts in the early going, possibly prompting New York to trade him in the first half of the season and opening the door for someone like Wilson to be the starter. Then again, New York might want to give Wilson the keys from the jump.
Darnold does not appear to have a great value on the market at present. But one thing possibly working in the Jets' favor is the number of teams still possibly looking at trade options at the quarterback position if they cannot trade up in the draft. As Rapoport mentioned, this might include a team like the Carolina Panthers.
Either way, New York is not showing a ton of urgency in moving Darnold.
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