With the NFL Draft fast approaching, the Jets are running out of time to make a decision on their quarterback future, whether it be to ride out another season with Sam Darnold or turn the page for good.
At least one former franchise star is in the latter camp.
Former New York defensive end John Abraham joined Audacy’s Zach Brook on the Upon Further Review podcast this week, and when asked about Darnold, said it was time for the franchise to head in a different direction following three lackluster seasons.
“Personally, I’m ready to move on from him,” Abraham said. “But like I said, give him a running back. He’s not ready to be Peyton Manning right now. He’s not ready to be Eli right now. He needs somebody that can take some pressure off him.”
Wherever Darnold lands, and the list of potential suitors has shrunk with recent draft pick trades with the 49ers and Dolphins, Abraham would like to see the USC product surrounded with more offensive firepower to allow the former No. 3 overall pick to grow, similar to what the Browns were able to achieve with Baker Mayfield.
“Get Marshawn Lynch in there for a couple more years,” Abraham said. “Get him a mainstream running back…get Etienne from Clemson. Like Mayfield. He got Chubb and the offense really opened up for him…get him a 100-yard runner…and the quarterback can relax.”
On the other side of the ball, New York will likely have to make a decision regarding Quinnen Williams in the coming years, with the 2019 third overall pick heading into the third year of a four-year deal. Williams has been a stud on the defensive line for Gang Green, much like Abraham was when he was with the Jets from 2000 to 2005, earning three Pro Bowl nods in that span, but Abraham wants to see a little more before deciding to lock up the 23-year-old long-term.
“I can’t really call it,” Abraham said. “It’s kind of tough. I’ve seen him play but I haven’t really seen him play. He’s a big dude…but that doesn’t mean anything if you can’t do it on the field. He was a great pick, came out looking good, and this is definitely the year to prove that you’re worth that big contract you’re going to want. This is the year you’re going to need to stand out.”
In Abraham’s age 23 season, he led the league with six forced fumbles and finished with 13.0 sacks, while Williams continued to impress last season with 7.0 sacks and two forced fumbles in 13 starts. If Abraham could give Williams any advice, it would be to stay his current course and a payday will soon come his way.
“Stay healthy and stay humble like he’s been,” Abraham said.
