Sam Darnold shares thoughts on getting traded from Jets to Panthers

Sam Darnold held his first press conference today following last week’s trade that sent him from the New York Jets to the Carolina Panthers. New York got three draft picks in the deal, while Carolina got a former first-round pick with more youth, athleticism, arm talent and upside than Teddy Bridgewater, who is currently on the trade block.

Darnold says he expected to play 20 years for the Jets and win some Super Bowls but is excited for a fresh start with the Panthers.

So, what sets this organization apart from his last franchise? Attention to detail, for one thing. Darnold says Carolina’s is one of a kind.

Asked whether he got a fair shake in New York, Darnold showed off some of that elusiveness he displays on the run by saying it didn’t work out timing-wise with the Jets.

While switching jobs and cities can be rough on anyone, Darnold at least has a few familiar faces in his new locker room.

Carolina has several former Jets players on the roster, including wide receiver Robby Anderson. Darnold says Robby’s a great teammate and he’s glad to work with him again.

As for the guy he’s replacing as the Panthers’ QB1, Darnold also has some experience with Teddy Bridgewater, who he says he’s always admired.

The man now cutting his checks has kept an open line.

Darnold says team owner David Tepper told him to call anytime for football or financial advice.

There appears to be no hard feelings for Darnold’s former employers. He says he has nothing but respect for everyone in New York and predicted that general manager Joe Douglas will get it right.

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