In an offseason that is expected to be a quarterback carousel, the New York Jets figure to be in the thick of things. They realistically have three options to decide what they do at the position. They can elect to keep Sam Darnold and attempt to build around him. The Jets quarterback could also be traded, then draft either Zach Wilson or Justin Fields, or trade for Houston Texans star QB Deshaun Watson, if the Texans eventually decide to deal him.
It is unknown what they will do, but they are not in a rush to make a decision. The Jets have received numerous phone calls regarding interest in Darnold. However, general manager Joe Douglas will wait until the top prospects have their pro days. It does make you think that if they are taking this long to make a decision, then Darnold’s job in New York is far from safe.
Jets Could Trade for a Quarterback
Another team that is not in a rush to make a decision is the Houston Texans. Despite Deshaun Watson requesting a trade and telling the organization, that he has taken his last snap in Houston. The Texans are determined to convince him to rethink his decision as they have no intentions of trading him. This puts the Jets suddenly in a unique position.
NFL Insider Adam Schefter appeared on The Michael Kay Show on Friday. He was asked what he thought the Jets will do at QB:
“I think they’re in a great spot for this reason: time is on their side. They have the second pick in the draft, Trevor Lawrence is going to go number one. Once he goes one, if the Houston Texans ever decide they are going to listen, then the Jets can be the most logical choice to turn to. “
Schefter believes either way the Jets are in a good spot, and it makes sense that Douglas is approaching this strategically and slowly. As long as Darnold is traded before the NFL Draft, he will carry some value, as there are numerous QB needy teams. If they do decide to deal him, they will receive more capital to make a move for Watson or have the opportunity to start fresh with a rookie. Time will only tell if the Texans end up giving up on Watson.
The Jets have a countless amount of options, and we will just have to sit back and be patient. They will continue to do their due diligence regarding the most valuable position on the team. This Jets offseason for Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh. They have lots of ammunition, with a large amount of cap space and draft capital. To say the least, this Jets offseason in New York will be extremely entertaining.