6 free-agent quarterbacks the Commanders could sign in 2024
By Dean Jones
Commanders could sign Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold cannot be seen as anything other than a draft bust at this stage of his career. That might be a little harsh on the player given the toxic environments he experienced with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, but there doesn't appear much hope he'll meet the expectations normally associated with someone taken No. 3 overall.
Darnold spent last season backing up Brock Purdy with the San Francisco 49ers. He wasn't on the field much - his only involvement saw the USC product complete 60.9 percent of his passes for 297 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. There's a chance he could stick around on another short-term deal. The Niners could also take their chances with a cheaper option from the college ranks if the situation dictates.
Again, this is dependent on whether the Washington Commanders need a veteran backup to mentor any incoming rookie. Darnold is young, has experience as a starter, and has proven to be a solid teammate in times of struggle. That makes him a decent enough candidate to be the team's No. 2 option if San Francisco goes in an alternative direction.
This would be underwhelming to some, but providing a signing like this with the correct context is paramount. Nobody - Darnold himself - will be expecting heavy involvement. His job will be to stay ready, help the starter find their feet, and provide a level of competition in practice that increases urgency.
That's it.