Hey AwfulGuy fanatics, I’ve finally got around to analyzing the Sam Darnold to the Carolina Panthers trade. ( I know, I know).
Now, I wouldn’t say that I was shocked with the trade in-that the Jets began posturing for a big-time QB months ago, and with new coach Robert Saleh, who didn’t pick Darnold, coming in the writing was on the wall for Darnold.
Darnold came out of college throwing for 4,143 yards 26 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He recently finished his last year with the Jets with 2,208 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 12 games.
Here we go, where most would call the 1st round (3rd overall) draft pick’s stats mighty pedestrian, I would say that Darnold did the best he could with a team that went 5-11, 4-12, 7-9, and 2-14 since he’s been in the league.
To top it off, Darnold has also been through two head coaches in Todd Bowles and Adam Gase with his top rusher RB Frank Gore.
C’mon mannnnnn.
In the trade to the Panthers, Darnold links up with “up and coming coach” Matt Rhule and offensive Guru Joe Brady. These offensive minds (Rhule has some defense experience) give Darnold the best foundation towards actually being something of big time QB in the NFL.
Darnold can make the hitches, fades, backside shoulder passes, post corners and he can even rush if necessary. I see Joe Brady taking full advantage of the 23-year-old’s abilities and also giving him the tools and plays needed to make things happen. Teddy Bridgewater is on the outs. Teddy isn’t a bad QB. I just see him as a second-tier guy right now in his career. A change of scenery can change that but that’s where I see him as of now.
Let’s look at the cliff notes of this trade:
Sam Darnold:
-Talent and QB IQ
-Had a bad landing with the Jets
-He was surrounded by little to no talent
-He went through 2 head coaches
-faced injury setbacks
Carolina Panthers:
-Need a polished young QB to fill a closing window with a new head coaching staff.
Now to the money:
Darnold stands to make $4,774,685 with the Panthers this year. The Panthers have chosen to pick up Darnold’s fifth-year option that allows him to make upwards of $18,858,000 (2022).
If Sam Darnold doesn’t pan out, the Panthers only end up losing 2021 6th round, 2022 2nd round, and 4th round picks. If the Panthers end up doing well those draft picks diminish in value.
What are your opinions on Sam Darnold heading to the Panthers? Will it pan out? Let me known by commenting below.
Check out some of Darnold’s highlights below:
Awful Sport News 