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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

One of the longest 2021 NFL trade sagas finally came to a conclusion this week. The New York Jets agreed to trade starting quarterback Sam Darnold to NFC South franchise, Carolina Panthers on Monday.

The Charlotte-based franchise will give up one 2nd and 4th rounder in 2022 in addition to a 6th rounder in exchange for Darnold.

USA Today via Reuters

The former 3rd overall pick has endured a tough start to his NFL career. In 38 starts for the Jets, Darnold has a 13-25-0 record playing under former Head Coach Adam Gase.

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He has thrown for 8,097 yards with 45 passing TDs against 39 interceptions since making his debut in 2018.

With Darnold as their starter, the New York-based franchise finished at the bottom of the AFC East behind Bill Belichick’s New England Patriots. So what does the future hold for the former 1st rounder in the NFL?

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Sam Darnold signs for Matt Rhule’s Carolina Panthers ahead of 2021 NFL season

Sam Darnold will arrive in Charlotte in the build-up to the 2021 NFL preseason. He is expected to compete with experienced NFL shot-caller, Teddy Bridgewater.

The former Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints man signed a $63 million contract with the Panthers before the start of the 2020 NFL season.

However, he is not really a guaranteed starter. Darnold has a shot at impressing coach Matt Rhule and climbing up the depth chart before the season kicks off in September. Here’s a short recap of his college career while playing for the University of Southern Columbia.

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The return of star-running back Christian McCaffrey will definitely serve as a boost for the Panthers. But they need some added firepower in their wide receiver department. Robby Anderson, DJ Moore, and David Moore are currently the 1st-choice starters in the Carolina offense.

Despite a poor stat card, Sam Darnold showed glimpses of brilliance during his 3-year stay at the Big Apple. It will be interesting to see if he can displace Bridgewater and get his NFL career back on track in the coming years.

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There is hope at the end of the tunnel for Sam but only if he makes it to the end.

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