Sam Darnold has yet to show up at training camp because of a contract dispute with the New York Jets. Though that much is certain, what’s been more uncertain are the issues over which they are haggling.
According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, the “major sticking point” has to do with guaranteed language. Cimini reports that the Jets have language that would make Darnold’s guaranteed money void if the quarterback is fined for disciplined or conduct on/off the field. Darnold wants language similar to what Josh Allen and Baker Mayfield reportedly have, which is that the guaranteed money would only void for a suspension, not a fine.
Darnold reportedly has $30 million guaranteed on the line, which he wants protected; a fine from the league is a much lower bar than a suspension.
Another issue that could be complicating matters is that Darnold’s agent Jimmy Sexton has some negative history with the Jets, as pointed out by Gary Myers.
Sam Darnold’s agent Jimmy Sexton has had contentious relationship with Jets over treatment of clients: Never gave Tebow a chance; fired Rex; Doug Marrone opted out of Bills contract believing he had Jets job; nasty Ryan Fitzpatrick contract situation. And now Darnold holdout.
— Gary Myers (@GaryMyersNY) July 29, 2018
The Jets liked Darnold enough to make the former USC quarterback the No. 3 pick in the draft. They have high hopes for him. But the more time he misses during training camp, the tougher it will become for him to win the starting quarterback job.
