New York Jets: Top 3 options with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft

New York Jets: 3 Top targets with third overall pick in 2018 NFL Draft

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 29: Sam Darnold #14 of the USC Trojans looks to throw against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the first half of the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between USC and Ohio State at AT&T Stadium on December 29, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images) /

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ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 29: Sam Darnold #14 of the USC Trojans looks to throw against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the first half of the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between USC and Ohio State at AT&T Stadium on December 29, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images) /

1. Sam Darnold, QB, USC

In their grade system for prospects, NFL.com says 7.00-7.49 is Pro Bowl to All-Pro ability. There’s a reason NFL.com gave him a grade of 7.0 and no one else. He’s the only quarterback who’s can’t miss (according to them) in this draft.

He’s as close to can’t miss as you can get at the quarterback position. Darnold checks every box that you want when it comes to an NFL-caliber quarterback prospect.

Say what you will about Josh Rosen, this guy has fewer negatives. Although there is one glaring negative, fumbles. He’s lost too many, and when you combine that with the interceptions, it’s a recipe for disaster. Coaches can live with interceptions. Fumbles, especially in the pocket, they can’t.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Post-free agency 3 rounds

Everyone suspects Darnold will be selected by the Browns at No. 1. So, they overlook him as an option for the Jets, and immediately go to Rosen. Darnold, though, has the highest floor and ceiling of any of the quarterbacks in this draft, and is the likeliest of them to be a championship quarterback who can carry a team to a title. Darnold should be the guy, if he’s available.

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