Detroit Lions: 5 Quarterbacks who could replace Matthew Stafford
Detroit Lions QB target No. 2: Sam Darnold
Make no mistake about it; Sam Darnold has not been good for the New York Jets. The former first-round pick has not developed into anything remotely akin to the franchise quarterback Gang Green had hoped they were getting out of USC, which is part of the reason why the general assumption is that the Jets are ready to move on from him this offseason.
The million-dollar question with Darnold is whether or not he’s unsalvagable as a quarterback in the NFL, though. It’s no secret that the Jets did him exactly zero favors to start his career, from fielding a talent-deficient roster (especially at wide receiver) to hiring Adam Gase in an ultimately disastrous move.
Perhaps this is somewhat of a case of not letting go of pre-draft perceptions but my belief is that there is still hope for Darnold — just not in New York. His time with the franchise has been too tumultuous and has created too much scar tissue for him to recover from in Gotham Green. But elsewhere, there is still a chance he could become a viable NFL signal-caller.
Assuming that the Jets indeed look to trade Darnold this offseason, the Lions would be foolish not to explore the option. Considering the Jets’ plans, Detroit would likely have leverage in a trade and be able to get the former first-rounder at a discount price because of that. And if they believe that a change of scenery could help him turn a corner, then they should make the deal.