FLORHAM PARK, NJ – As he prepares for what may be his last game with the New York Jets, Sam Darnold sounds like he knows where the organization can find its long-term answer to quarterbacks.
By sticking with him.
Despite his worst statistical season, Darnold said Thursday he hopes to stay with the Jets and believes he can develop into a franchise quarterback.
“I absolutely believe that my best days lie ahead,” said Darnold, 23, who was drafted third overall in 2018.
Darnold did not live up to expectations – 13-24 as an appetizer – which sparked speculation that the Jets would trade him and select his replacement with the second pick in the 2021 draft NFL.
He insisted he would not approach Sunday as a possible final match. The Jets (2-13), winners of two consecutive games, tackle the New England Patriots (6-9) on the road.
“I’m a Jet now,” Darnold said. “I know we all like to think hypothetically and what-if-think, but I’m currently a Jet. I love it. I love the guys in the locker room. I like going to work here every day.”
Darnold said he has not yet spoken to Joe Douglas, general manager, about his future. He has one more year on his rookie contract, with a fifth-year option for 2022 to be exercised in early May.
What complicates its future is a lack of development, plus the best draft position. With the second choice, the Jets could take Justin Fields of Ohio or Zach Wilson of BYU and select Darnold for drafts.
Much will depend on who the team coaches. Adam Gase is expected to be sacked after the game, and his replacement will have a say in the quarter-final decision.
“I think there are pieces where I have not played nearly as well as I should have, and I will be the first to admit it,” Darnold said.
Darnold is the lowest-ranked player in the NFL (72.3), with just eight passes and nine distinctions, but he rides on a best career of three consecutive games without turnover.
“This is where Sam’s growth has come in the last few weeks,” offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains said. “He knows, ‘Put the hood away. You do not have to be Superman. ”
Gase said the stripe without turnover is not a big step. Would I like him to have more three- and four-touchdown games? Absolutely, but that’s not something we can necessarily control, is it? “
According to Gase, Darnold’s decision-making, accuracy and footwork should work, who said it was unfair to criticize him for the offensive fight. Early in the season, Darnold was throwing wide receivers after second and third strings due to injuries.
Gase admitted he did a poor job of coaching the offense. At the same time, Darnold admitted that he did not help his coach.
Darnold calls it the most challenging year of his football career and goes back to high school.
“Yes, I would say so,” said Darnold, who also handled a sprained throwing shoulder that made him sidelined for four games. “I had some tough seasons in high school, but it was definitely a tough season.”