New York Jets must show patience with Sam Darnold
Although he was the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, the New York Jets need to show patience with quarterback Sam Darnold.
I know it’s tempting — so tempting. New York Jets fans want to see what quarterback Sam Darnold can do, and they want to see it right away. It’s like when you’re a kid and you know your Christmas presents are in the closet and you’re dying to open them. But you can’t, not yet.
The USC product is the shiny new toy under Gang Green’s Christmas tree this year, but the Jet faithful may have to wait to see what is in the package. And that’s okay. The No. 3 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft has the pedigree and skill set to be a premier signal-caller in the NFL. I really believe that. I think that Darnold will be a perennial Pro Bowl performer. All in due time though.
The 6-4, 220-pounder is still just 20 years old. He possesses a strong and accurate arm (Darnold completed 64.9 percent of his pass attempts in two seasons with the Trojans). He stands up well in the face of the blitz. Darnold throws with timing and anticipation and goes through his reads effectively.
Sounds good, right? Wait, there’s more. The Caplstrano, CA native also is an effective scrambler and throws with precision when flushed from the pocket and on the run. He is known as a real competitor and someone who can command a huddle.
It’s true that Darnold fell right into New York’s lap. However, give General Manager Mike Maccagnan credit for trading up three spots in order to be able to grab him. He was obviously very pleased to get Darnold via nj.com:
"“First, as a player, we like him from an ability standpoint,” Maccagnan said. “He obviously played at a high level in terms of college. He got thrust into playing very early on.”"
Darnold’s Achilles heel is his penchant for turnovers. He committed 22 last year (13 interceptions and nine fumbles). That can be corrected with coaching from offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates. Darnold needs to keep both hands on the football while in the pocket so he is not stripped of the football under pressure. He should be able to make the adjustment moving forward.
Next: NFL Draft 2018: Grades for each first-round pick
It’s just a matter of time before Darnold takes the starting job and runs with it. It just doesn’t have to be Week One. Josh McCown and/or Teddy Bridgewater can hold the fort for a while. The Jets will know when Darnold is ready. There is no need to rush him. He is their future. McCown should be a tremendous mentor for him as well.
It looks like Gang Green has finally landed their franchise quarterback. Patience will be a virtue in this circumstance.