The New York Jets selected Sam Darnold with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Here’s all you need to know about Darnold, including our grade.
How did this happen? The New York Jets traded up from No. 6 to No. 3 and landed arguably the best quarterback in this draft. New York was able to get none other than USC Trojans signal caller Sam Darnold with their No. 3 overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Strengths
Ideal size for the position. The ball jumps off his hand, particularly on deep throws. Doesn’t get rattled by bodies around him in the pocket. Will slide and move to find a platform to throw. Flashes the ability to make “wow” throws on the run. Strong in the pocket, and will shake off linemen in the backfield. Doesn’t panic, always in control.
Arm talent is evident on tape. Consistently made big plays in big moments. Tough runner with solid athleticism, but just a “good” athlete running the ball. Shows the ability to confidently make tight-window throws into coverage. Excels making plays on the move and outside the framework of the offense. Won’t be 21 until July and already processes at a high level.
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Weaknesses
A little bit of an atypical delivery and changes arm angles which can lead to inconsistency with ball placement. Throws some ugly picks forcing them into coverage. Has some struggles with ball placement even from a clean pocket. Will lock into his first read at times which leads to his interception issues. Won’t see underneath defenders at times. Will get off balance and underthrow balls down the field at times.
Has the arm, but screws up the weight transfer at times even in a clean pocket. Would like to see him drive throws downfield more consistently. Can make throws off platform, but occasionally falls off base when he doesn’t have to. Has that Jameis Winston quality of killing himself to try to make a play, but forces things
Grade
Darnold has the chance to be the best quarterback the Jets have had since Joe Namath. That is a lofty comparison, but Darnold can absolutely live up to the hype. He has the luxury to learn from journeyman quarterback Josh McCown and new offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates. Gang Green could not be happier.
Grade: A+