The New York Jets and quarterback Sam Darnold look destined for a breakup. As New York prepares to select Zach Wilson with the No. 2 pick in April's draft, a split seems best for the two. Darnold could use a change of scenery after three tumultuous seasons in New York and Wilson would be better positioned without the questions of Darnold hanging around.
New York's current odds to win the Super Bowl (+6000) on WynnBET showcase the optimism surrounding Wilson. But the Jets need to ship out Darnold first. Unfortunately for them, his trade value is tanking.
Just mentioned this on @GetUpESPN: Talked to three NFL GMs about the market for Sam Darnold. I asked what’s the most they’d be willing to give up: Two said a 3rd Rd pick — with one saying even a late 3rd would be “a little rich.” The other GM said “maybe” a 3rd or conditional 4th
— Kimberley A. Martin (@ByKimberleyA) March 29, 2021
It was once thought that Darnold could fetch the Jets a first-round pick from a quarterback-needy franchise. Then the haul was thought to be on par with what the Arizona Cardinals got for Josh Rosen (a second- and fifth-round pick). Now Darnold may not be worth even a third-round selection.
The drop-off is notable, but not surprising. Former teams in search of a quarterback like the Indianapolis Colts (Carson Wentz), Washington Football Team (Ryan Fitzpatrick) and Chicago Bears (Andy Dalton) landed their starters for the 2021 season. That's shrunk the potential market for Darnold and lowered his price.
The Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers could be the two remaining teams in the sweepstakes. Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater have shown they're not the answer for their respective squads, and a shakeup is needed under center.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are another intriguing destination. Ben Roethlisberger's decline in play could hold this team back from contending, and nabbing Darnold to be Big Ben's backup would be a smart move.
There's a franchise out there that's going to talk themselves into a Darnold trade. He was highly coveted coming out of USC and the flashes of potential may be enough to help him find a new home.
The Jets still should've capitalized when Darnold's value was higher and more teams needed a QB. Contemplating his future in New York hurt their potential haul, and they'll likely settle for scraps in the weeks leading up to the draft.