The New York Jets have finally answered the question on many people’s minds: what are they going to do with Sam Darnold? For them, the answer was to trade him to the Carolina Panthers.
Darnold’s time in New York was riddled with losses, criticism and mono. However, it wasn’t all bad. There were some times of excitement, hope and celebration.
So, as a farewell, I highlighted some of Sam Darnold’s best plays as a New York Jet.
Behind-the-line scramble vs Buffalo
For the first play, we’re going all the way back to 2018. The Jets were 3-9 and the Bills were 4-8. The game had no playoff implications but it was a game against a division rival – so it mattered. Darnold and the offense needed a touchdown to tie the game and, well, this happened:
That play is still amazing today and shows some of Darnold’s unique abilities. The only problem is that these theatrics weren’t an all-the-time thing on the field.
Oh, and, by the way. Who caught that pass? Darnold’s new teammate Robby Anderson.
Cross-body throw vs San Francisco
Sam Darnold had arguably his best career throw this past season against the San Francisco 49ers. After breaking a sack, he rolled out left and threw across his body to Braxton Berrios for the touchdown.
Here’s the play:
If this play has started to bring out any emotions about Darnold being traded away, don’t fret. Zach Wilson can make that throw as well.
46-yard TD run vs Denver
The last play that’s going to be highlighted happened about two weeks after the previous one. Darnold once again showed his scrambling ability, but in a different way:
Jets fans and the NFL were all raving about this play because, well, he turned on the jets. This play showed that he can do more than run around behind the line and either throw a dart or an interception.
Despite Darnold showing in these three instances that he has talent and potential, the Jets only went on to win one of those three games. That’s the issue. You can have all the talent in the world, but if you don’t win, it doesn’t matter.
Fans and the organization are hoping the next chapter of Jets football brings along some wins. That next chapter begins on April 29 when the Jets are on the clock with the second overall pick.