The 49ers’ hopes of something strange happening ahead of them in this year’s draft were shattered on Monday, when the Jets traded quarterback Sam Darnold to the Carolina Panthers.
Darnold’s departure from New York leaves the Jets without a starting signal caller and cements what has been speculated all along – he develops a defender.
This was probably the case even though Darnold remained, but his presence left some room for the Sanigans in the second round. Maybe a team blew the Jets with an offer to advance ahead of the 49ers, or maybe they could recruit a non-quarterback to try to improve the roster around Darnold. That scenario was long shots, but they were on the table while Darnold was around.
Instead, New York chose not to leave any doubt. They sent Darnold to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a trio of projects. They will draft a defender after the Jaguars have selected Trevor Lawrence, and the 49ers will have a choice between three defenders.
There is still some uncertainty at number 2, although he could throw a key at the top of the draft. BYU QB Zach Wilson expects to finish 2nd overall. If the Jets pass over him, there could be some chaos, either at number 3 or after. While most of the uncertainty is gone, it remains enough for the second choice to continue with an intrigue for the 49ers.