3 things Sam Darnold must do better after Carolina Panthers trade
By Dean Jones
Produce more from a clean pocket
While the New York Jets were an absolute abomination for large periods of the 2020 season, Sam Darnold’s production from a clean pocket was more than a little concerning. He was once again among the league’s worst in this particular category when he had time to go through his progressions, which is a trend that needs to turn around quickly when he assumes command under center for the Carolina Panthers.
It’s hard not to like the tools Darnold has at his disposal.
The signal-caller has a rocket for an arm and can make almost every throw imaginable. But some questionable decision-making has seen the player fail to reach the level expected as yet.
Carolina is banking on a big change when Darnold links up with head coach Matt Rhule and offensive coordinator Joe Brady. However, they can only do so much, and when push comes to shove it will be up to the player to make the necessary adjustments when it matters most.
Just how much his confidence has been knocked over the last three years at MetLife Stadium is up for debate.
It won’t take long for the Panthers to find out about Darnold’s character when he gets onto the gridiron. But with his bad throw percentages standing at 19.3, 17.8, and 18.2 throughout his time on the Jets, any similar standard is going to see questions asked about the team’s decision to bring him on board.