Upon first glance, the New York Jets seem like a likely trade partner with the Houston Texans for quarterback Deshaun Watson.
After all, general manager Joe Douglas is sitting on a stockpile of first-round draft picks after trading safety Jamal Adams to the Seattle Seahawks. Plus Douglas has a ton of cap space available, making it possible to absorb Watson’s massive contract.
But ESPN NFL Draft insider Todd McShay said Thursday he doesn’t think the Jets should trade for Watson. Per The Big Lead:
To me, it just doesn’t make sense. I don’t think you’re getting a huge upgrade. If I’m the Jets sitting at No. 2 (in the draft) I’m saying, ‘I love Deshaun, he’s a really good player, I might even think he’s slightly better than Sam (Darnold).’
Not a huge upgrade?
Darnold threw for 2,208 yards with nine touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 12 games last season.
All Watson did was lead the NFL with 4,823 passing yards, despite watching the Texans trade his favorite target, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, to the Arizona Cardinals before the start of the season.
Watson also threw for a career-high 33 touchdowns with a career-low seven interceptions. Watson’s 112.4 QB rating was second in the NFL, behind only Green Bay Packers MVP candidate Aaron Rodgers. Darnold was 35th with a 72.7 rating.
Not a huge upgrade?
Jets fans better hope Douglas tunes out McShay’s misguided analysis.
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Mike Rosenstein may be reached at mrosenstein@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.