The NY Jets are expected to be very active in the quarterback market this offseason. At least that seems to be the case following recent rumors regarding incumbent starter Sam Darnold.
Per a report from uStadium, the Jets have received calls from “multiple teams” about the availability of Darnold. While the report doesn’t specify which teams have called and how far those talks have gone, it does state that the Jets “have been listening all inquiries.”
This doesn’t come as much of a surprise given the rumors surrounding the Jets and their quarterback plan this offseason. While nothing has been determined as of yet, the Jets are exploring all their options.
Hence, it’s no surprise to see interested teams calling about Darnold.
The Jets were also reportedly one of the teams that were interested in former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford. While no formal offer was made, the Jets reportedly called the Lions to inquire about Stafford.
Perhaps they also called to inquire about what the current quarterback market is. That would help them understand any future acquisitions they might make as well as help determine what Darnold could go for.
Either way, the Jets are certainly interested in moving on from Darnold this offseason. And there appears to be a few teams interested in the former No. 3 overall pick.
NY Jets’ quarterback Sam Darnold seems to have a sizable trade market
After showing improvement in his second NFL season, Darnold took a major step back in 2020 finishing with just nine touchdowns as compared to 11 interceptions in 12 games.
The 23-year-old completed under 60 percent of passes and averaged just 6.1 yards per attempt. By all metrics, he was one of, if not the worst starting quarterback in the NFL.
Given that the time remaining on his rookie contract is running out and the numerous options the Jets have to potentially upgrade in the offseason, Darnold appears to be on borrowed time.
But all options are still on the table. This won’t be a decision made overnight.
In fact, there’s been plenty of speculation that the Jets could actually stick with Darnold for at least one more season and use the offseason to build around the former USC star.
The likes of Adam Schefter and others have speculated that they might do just that, especially after the hiring of new head coach Robert Saleh.
Ultimately, however, no one knows what they’ll end up doing. What we do know is that Darnold’s market is active.
Teams are calling about Darnold. And you could bet the Jets are listening.