NFL execs doubt Jets would get first-round pick in Sam Darnold trade

The 0-4 New York Jets will be faced with a few questions if they continue their lack of success, which could result in the first overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence is expected to be selected at No. 1, and this would leave New York with questions about what to do with Sam Darnold. 

If they were to select Lawrence, Darnold likely would be traded for draft compensation. However, NFL executives interviewed by ESPN's Adam Schefter revealed they don't believe Darnold would net New York a first-round selection. One general manager told ESPN.:

"I don't think they'd get a [first-round pick] for Sam, but it also depends what he puts on tape the rest of the year. The problem is, [Darnold] is struggling with his accuracy, his durability — so they're in a tough spot. And if everyone knows the Jets are taking a quarterback, then they won't get as much back."

Another general manager also doesn't believe New York would be able to get a first-round selection for the 23-year-old. In fact, he doesn't even believe a second-round selection would be possible unless Darnold finishes on a high note:

"The high-water mark would be a [second-round pick] for him. I think they could get a [fourth-round pick] for him, but if he finished positive for him, they might get a 2 for him. In college, he was a turnover machine. In the NFL, he has been a turnover machine. I just don't think he has the credentials to go for a 1."

Many teams might not be willing to give Darnold a shot, especially considering the fact he's missing games for the third time in his career this weekend due to a shoulder injury. As a rookie in 2018, Darnold missed three games with a sprained foot. He missed time last season due to mononucleosis. 

Despite the missed time, Darnold's career in New York has been pretty underwhelming. As the third overall selection in 2018, the Jets had hoped he'd bring success back to the organization. In 30 career games, the USC product is 11-19, completing 59.8 percent of his passes for 6,681 yards and 39 touchdowns against 32 interceptions — not exactly ideal.

Still, a quarterback-needy team could take a chance on Darnold and make a trade for the California native. Schefter notes that the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints could be interested in adding him during the offseason.