New York Jets 2018 NFL Draft Targets: Ranking the top 4 quarterbacks

The New York Jets own the third overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft. Here are my rankings for the top four quarterback prospects.

The New York Jets may have the most important decision to make in franchise history later this month. They own the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Who should they select as their franchise quarterback when they’re on the clock?

The top two quarterback prospects may already be gone by then. The Cleveland Browns own the top selection and the New York Giants have pick number two. Unless General Manager Mike Maccagnan makes another trade between now and April 26, Gang Green is picking third.

I’ve viewed a lot of tape and here is how I would rank the top four quarterback prospects in this year’s draft:

1. Sam Darnold, USC

The 6-4, 221-pounder reminds me of a young Andrew Luck. Before the shoulder issue. Darnold has the best combination of size, accuracy, arm strength and scrambling ability in this year’s QB class.

The Caplstrano Beach, CA native was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection in 2017 when he completed 63.1 percent of his passes for 4,143 yards and 26 touchdowns. Darnold goes through his progressions well and stands strong in the pocket in the face of pressure. Although he’s not fast, Darnold is a tough runner who can turn a third-and-eight into a first down with his legs. He throws very effectively on the run and is also known as true leader in the huddle.

The one Achilles heel that Darnold has is his proclivity for turnovers. He tossed 20 interceptions in his last 20 collegiate contests. He has to take better care of the football, make better decisions, that is priority one. Despite that important issue, Darnold owns a very high ceiling and I’d be shocked if the Browns don’t make him the top pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.