5 reasons Jets can win with Sam Darnold in 2020

ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 29: Conor McDermott #69 of the New York Jets blocks Trent Murphy #93 of the Buffalo Bills in front of Sam Darnold #14 during the third quarter at New Era Field on December 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. New York defeats Buffalo 13-6. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

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ORCHARD PARK, NY – DECEMBER 29: Sam Darnold #14 of the New York Jets calls a play during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on December 29, 2019, in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

2. The Jets have built a better offensive line for Sam Darnold

While quarterback play is a kingmaker in the NFL, all good teams are built to win in the trenches. That has been a problem for the New York Jets of late, who let their offensive line deteriorate into one of the worst in football thanks to neglect and poor decision making from their previous three general managers.

The end result was a disaster for Sam Darnold last season, who got sacked 33 times and was running for his life on numerous occasions. GM Joe Douglas, a former offensive lineman himself, made a promise to Darnold’s parents that he would protect their son and has delivered on it.

The Jets’ top priority this offseason has been improving their offensive line and Douglas has brought in a ton of new players to bolster the group. Douglas drafted a pair of offensive linemen in April, including first-rounder Mekhi Becton at left tackle, as part of a great class.

The group will take time to gel but they should be a huge help for Darnold, who looked sharp when he actually had time to throw the football. If Darnold isn’t on his back and can actually survey the field, the Jets will have a tremendous opportunity to take advantage of his talents to win football games.

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