Jets GM Says He'll Answer Trade Calls On Sam Darnold

The New York Jets may not be looking to trade quarterback Sam Darnold, but they are certainly willing to listen to offers.

That has been made abundantly clear by Jets general manager Joe Douglas.

“I will answer the call, if it’s made,” Douglas said, via Ralph Vacchiano of SNY. “Sam is, we think, a dynamic playmaker in this league with dynamic talent. ... But if calls are made, I will answer them.”

While Douglas pooh-poohed the notion that the Jets will actively seek a Darnold deal, Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer recently reported the Jets are indeed looking to trade Darnold, then draft his replacement with the No. 2 overall pick. 

Douglas did at least admit the Jets are keeping all options open at quarterback. Then he offered more praise for Darnold.

"Our stance on Sam hasn’t changed," Douglas said. "He’s an extremely talented player. Very smart, very tough. We have no doubt he’s going to achieve his outstanding potential."

Darnold was selected with the No. 3 pick in 2018. He has been mostly been linked to the San Francisco 49ers, the former team of new Jets coach Robert Saleh. It’s safe to say Saleh still has connections in San Francisco after spending several seasons there coaching the defense.

Along with that, a report from to ESPN’s Adam Schefter last month said that multiple teams have called the New York Jets about Darnold,

But according to the GM, Darnold is the Jets' main man. Sort of, anyway.