Does Patriots head coach Bill Belichick’s praise of Jets QB Sam Darnold indicate a trade is on the horizon?
Fans in New England have probably grown fatigued with all the quarterback controversy surrounding the Patriots, and rightfully so. Unfortunately for them, the discussion isn’t going to end anytime soon as backup Jarrett Stidham is currently the only player at the position under contract for 2021.
It remains to be seen what the Patriots’ intentions are with Cam Newton, but our guess is that they’ll look at potential alternative options before they even consider re-signing him. As far as free agency is concerned, they won’t have their pick of the litter as the list of signal callers slated to hit the open market is anything but enticing.
Taking that into account, they might have to take to the trade market to find a potential solution, which is where Jets third-year man Sam Darnold, who might become available if New York decides to select a QB with the No. 2 overall pick, enters the equation.
With his uncertain future in mind, now sounds like as good of a time as any time to remind you of Bill Belichick’s fondness of him. In predictable fashion, the Patriots head coach spoke highly of Darnold leading up to Sunday’s matchup.
Belichick on Sam Darnold: He's got the ability to make all the throws. ... I think he's shown the ability to do everything. The consistency has looked better in recent weeks. I don't think there's any shortage of talent there.
— Ryan Hannable (@RyanHannable) December 30, 2020
On top of that telling quote, Belichick also made sure to note that Darnold has played mistake-free in recent weeks, which is huge a step in the right direction compared to where he was early in the season. With that being said, however, the former No. 3 overall pick still ranks near the bottom of the NFL in almost every major statistical category in 2020.
Among qualified gunslingers, he ranks 29th in both touchdown passes (eight) and yards per attempt (5.9), as well as 28th in completion percentage (58.8%). While those are damning numbers, you really can’t deny the fact that Darnold’s been the victim of awful coaching, a bottom-barrel receiving corps and, outside of left tackle, an underperforming offensive line.
We’re firm believers that Darnold has the requisite tools to become a successful QB at this level, and the Patriots could just be the perfect destination for him to overcome his flaws and realize his potential. If Belichick likes what he sees, how can you not endorse a trade for him?
Bill Belichick on Sam Darnold: "I don't think there's any shortage of talent there. ... Good prospect." pic.twitter.com/V7oN7dOh5c
— Henry McKenna (@McKennAnalysis) December 30, 2020
There’s no denying the USC product makes too many boneheaded decisions for our liking, but that habit could be rectified with proper coaching, and the Patriots are the gold standard in that department.
Here’s another positive spin for you: though Darnold’s confidence is seemingly shattered, couldn’t you argue that a move to one of the most stable organizations in sports could do wonders for him? Not to mention, his underwhelming numbers likely mean he’ll come at a discount.
We’re not saying that Patriots are going to trade for Darnold, but Belichick’s consistent praise of him proves fans shouldn’t rule it out of the realm of possibility.
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