Jets' Saleh noncommittal on Darnold: 'Premature' to discuss QB plans
At Robert Saleh's introductory press conference Thursday, the New York Jets' new head coach declined to guarantee Sam Darnold's future with the team.
"There's a lot of things that we have to do moving forward. We're just getting the staff into the building. There's so many things that we have to do from an evaluation standpoint with regards to the entire roster, not just the quarterback," Saleh said, according to SNY's Danny Abriano.
"To give you that answer right now would not be fair. There's a lot of discussions that need to be had with staff and, obviously, himself. To give you that answer right now would be a bit premature."
Darnold is coming off his worst season as a pro. The former No. 3 pick set new career lows in touchdown passes (nine), passer rating (72.7), and yards per game (184). His poor play coupled with the Jets owning the second overall selection in the upcoming draft has led to speculation that Darnold could be moved this offseason.
Saleh, then still the San Francisco 49ers' defensive coordinator, praised Darnold before a Week 2 matchup, calling him a talented quarterback. The Jets' new bench boss continued to laud the 23-year-old's ability Thursday.
"What I can tell you about with regards to Sam is that he's got an unbelievable arm talent. There's a reason why he was the No. 3 pick," Saled noted.
"He's fearless in the pocket, he's got a natural throwing motion, he's mobile, he's extremely intelligent, and he's tough as nails. His reputation in the locker room is unquestioned."
Darnold has thrown 45 touchdowns to 39 interceptions over 38 career starts and will carry a $9.7-million cap hit in 2021, according to Spotrac.