Can Darnold thrive in the evolving Jets Offense?
“With the third overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft the New York Jets select, Sam Darnold!” This was the statement which Jets’ fans had been craving. A new Quarterback for the franchise to build around. However, two years have passed and Darnold is yet to complete a full season and despite unwavering support from the majority of the fanbase surely this has to be the turning point.
There is an argument to suggest that the past two years have not entirely been Sam’s fault contracting the virus mono last season was the beginning of him missing or suffering through almost half of the regular schedule. Between mono, strep throat, a lost toenail and a sprained thumb there’s a concern for Sam staying fit. Although injuries and sickness aside he has also been attempting to operate behind an offensive line which has been sub-par for some time.
Joe Douglas and his team have been working on strengthening this area most notably the mountainous Mekhi Becton who has already promised to protect Darnold and is widely expected to start at left or right tackle and just blow holes in opposition defences, George Fant will likely play the opposite side. Connor McGovern was added at Centre and would be a popular favourite to start there given his performances as a starter for the Denver Broncos. These players should form the core of a strong O-line which will buy Darnold the time he needs to release the ball to some of the Jets wide receivers.
Darnold’s weapons out wide will also be under scrutiny as Breshad Perriman and Denzel Mims join the roster. Perriman off the back of a prolific last leg of the season, although the rest of the season was a little underwhelming, 4 touchdowns in 3 games for a total of 349-yards is a great stat except this is the highlight of Perriman’s 4 year career so far. Denzel Mims is an exciting prospect, 4.38 seconds for his 40-yard dash, a competitor in the air and hands stickier than glue.
Running back options spearheaded by Leveon Bell, bolstered by veteran Frank Gore and Rookie Lamical Perine. Bell is sure to shine with the amped-up front line and being able to share some of the ball carrying responsibilities with invaluable experience and youthful enthusiasm as the burden eases on his shoulders.
This isn’t a make or break season for Darnold or The Jets offense, they are still a developing group and Darnold is still only turning 23 years old the same age as Joe Burrow. Adam Gase however may be on the chopping block should the Jets misfire again.
