Appearing on the Rich Eisen show Monday (full video above), ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay described what he believes the New York Jets draft plans will be as well as what the team will decide to do at quarterback.
McShay, who was New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas’ teammate in college, said that he expects his longtime friend to build primarily through the draft the way Ravens’ former general manager – and Douglas’ mentor – Ozzie Newsome did for many years in the NFL.
With that being the case, McShay proclaimed that it is his belief that the New York Jets will select BYU quarterback Zach Wilson at #2 overall and trade current incumbent signal-caller Sam Darnold.
McShay’s rationale is that while he still feels strongly that Darnold can become a high end starter in the NFL, if Douglas thinks Wilson – who McShay claimed is “clearly” the 2nd best quarterback in the 2021 NFL draft – has anywhere close to the same ceiling as the former USC star, then the Jets would be best served selecting the BYU standout because that would allow Gang Green the benefit of more time to build a strong roster since Wilson would be on an inexpensive 5-year rookie contract, while Darnold is nearing the end of his original contract.
Ironically, McShay agreed with Eisen that Wilson is a similar prospect to what Darnold was coming out of college in 2018, citing the ability of both quarterbacks to make great plays outside of structure and on the run outside the pocket.
When asked where Darnold’s ideal fit would be, ESPN’s senior draft analyst identified the Carolina Panthers, citing that team’s strong offensive supporting cast as well as the leadership of head coach Matt Rhule and the scheming ability of offensive coordinator Joe Brady.