New York Jets quarterback Sam Darnold Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Sam Darnold wants 'to be a Jet for life,' knows decision isn't his to make

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 12/14/20

At 0-12 on the season, the New York Jets have a high probability of landing the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, meaning a shot to select Clemson standout quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

If New York drafts Lawrence, Sam Darnold will likely be on his way out of the Meadowlands. When asked if he would benefit from a change of scenery on Monday, the third-year quarterback admitted that he doesn't want to play anywhere else.

#Jets QB Sam Darnold asked if a change of scenery could benefit him.

“I love it here … I love living here.

"I’ve always said I want to be a Jet for life, but that decision isn’t up to me.”
— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) December 14, 2020

Darnold's right... he doesn't have a choice in the matter. He could have made it a difficult decision for the Jets had he played well this season, but the 23-year-old has done nothing to make the Jets believe they have found their franchise quarterback.

In nine games this season, Darnold is winless, completing just 58.4% of his passes for 1,560 yards and five touchdowns against nine interceptions. The USC product has taken a significant step backward, and one of the only quarterbacks who has been worse than Darnold this year is Philadelphia Eagles signal-caller Carson Wentz.

On top of the significant dip in numbers, Darnold hasn't been able to stay healthy in three seasons with the Jets. As a rookie in 2018, he missed time with a sprained foot. Last season, he missed time with mononucleosis. This year, he missed time with a shoulder injury.

While the Jets are interested in drafting Lawrence, he could end up returning to Clemson for another season. If he does, then trading Darnold will likely be out of the question for New York.

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