The New York Jets are gauging widespread interest in quarterback Sam Darnold at the start of the informal tampering period. There had been plenty of rumblings about a potential trade leading up to free agency.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported Monday eight teams have been in contact with the Jets regarding Darnold, with New York still planning to evaluate quarterback prospects before making a final call:

10) Status quo on the Sam Darnold front, with Darnold likely to be the next QB domino to fall. So what I told you last week stands: Eight teams have been in contact with the Jets about Darnold, and the team would like to see Wilson and Fields throw live at their pro days before making a final call, but has relayed some flexibility on that to other teams. What kind of deal would get it done? My guess would be maybe something north of what Arizona got for Josh Rosen in 2019 (that was a two and a five).

New York's plan to watch draft prospects throw live is nothing new. But the fact eight rival teams have inquired about Sam Darnold is certainly news. The Jets appear headed for what might be a tough decision.

Article Continues Below
More New York Jets News
New York Jets coach Aaron Glenn speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center
Jetsā€™ Quincy Williams reveals how Aaron Glenn is already challenging himJaren Kawada Ā·
New York Jets Head Coach Aaron Glenn, is shown as he speaks during a press conference, at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center, Monday, January 27, 2025, in Florham Park. Glenn spoke about not just getting the Jets to a winning record but to sustain them as a championship caliber team.
Aaron Rodgersā€™ ouster a sign of things to come for JetsMike Gianakos Ā·
Isaiah Davis, Jets
2 Jets hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowDouglas Fritz Ā·
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) is shown after he led Gang Green to a 32-20 victory against the Miami Dolphins.
Steelers, Jets would make Week 1 history if Aaron Rodgers signsBenjamin Adducchio Ā·
Detroit Lions pass game coordinator Tanner Engstrand watches practice at Meijer Performance Center in Allen Park on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025.
New Jets OC Tanner Engstrand gives 5 keys offense is ā€˜shooting forā€™Ben Strauss Ā·
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) warms up before an AFC wild card game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium.
ā€˜Greatā€™ take by Jetsā€™ Justin Fields will have Bears, Steelers fans raising eyebrowsDouglas Fritz Ā·

General manager Joe Douglas might be tempted to move on from Darnold if he gets a strong offer from a team desperate to land a new quarterback. The Jets can then use the No. 2 overall pick to select the likes of Zach Wilson, Justin Fields or Trey Lance.

Alternatively, Douglas could keep Darnold with the hope he shows improvement under new offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. That route would likely see the Jets select a star receiver like DeVonta Smith or Ja'Marr Chase with the second overall pick.

In any case, the market for Sam Darnold is far from limited.