Sam Darnold Trade Rumors: WFT Interested in Jets QB After Fitzpatrick Contract

The Washington Football Team may have reportedly signed Ryan Fitzpatrick, but it might not be done addressing its quarterback position. 

According to Connor Hughes of The Athletic, Washington "has not ruled out a trade for Sam Darnold." Hughes added that a trade is a "bit more unlikely now, obviously, as WFT won't be willing to go as high as others in draft compensation, but they still have interest in the New York Jets quarterback."

There are conflicting reports about just how serious Washington's potential interest might be in Darnold:

Kim Jones of the NFL Network added that the Jets have been "taking calls" from Darnold suitors but that Washington "won't be interested" after the Fitzgerald signing. 

Washington will likely go into training camp with Fitzpatrick and Kyle Allen competing for the starting job, with Fitzpatrick the favorite in that battle. Here's how Darnold's 2020 stats compared to each of them:

• Darnold: 2,208 passing yards, nine touchdowns, 11 interceptions, 59.6 completion percentage, 2-10 record as New York's starter. 
• Fitzpatrick: 2,091 yards, 13 touchdowns, eight interceptions, 68.5 completion percentage, 4-3 record as the Miami Dolphins' starter. 
• Allen: 610 yards, four touchdowns, one interception, 69 completion percentage, 1-3 record as Washington's starter. 

One thing to monitor in Washington is whether the team uses a draft pick this offseason on a young quarterback. Fitzpatrick's one-year, $10 million deal has all the makings of a bridge year in Washington, making it likely they'll groom someone behind him, whether that's Allen or an incoming draft pick. 

Perhaps the team will keep Darnold on its radar, but it seems unlikely he'll be wearing burgundy and gold next season.