Year three for quarterback Sam Darnold and the New York Jets is looming right around the corner. Head coach Adam Gase is confident that the team is continuously making strides in the right direction.
ESPN NFL Nation reporter Rich Cimini tweeted the tactician's sentiments on his quarterback:
Gase on Darnold: “It seems like everything is a step faster this year.” #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) August 16, 2020
The Jets opened another chapter in 2018 after moving on from starting quarterback Josh McCown. The team found its franchise cornerstone in quarterback Sam Darnold after selecting him with the third overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft.
The former USC Trojan missed some time during his rookie year due to a nagging foot injury. Darnold went on to finish the season with 2,865 passing yards, 17 passing touchdowns, and 15 interceptions through 13 appearances.
Days after their first game of the 2019 season, it was reported that Darnold was diagnosed with mononucleosis, and he subsequently missed three games. He recorded better numbers in his sophomore season as he tallied 3,024 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions in 13 games played. The team finished with a subpar 7-9 record and eventually missed the 2019 playoffs.
The Jets may not necessarily be a win-now team especially after the team traded away its defensive star safety in Jamal Adams. However, Darnold's improvement will still be crucial as it will dictate where the team will land by the end of the season.
Despite the team's current situation, Darnold will still be having potent weapons at his disposal. The Jets offense in 2020 will be headlined by All-Pro running back Le'Veon Bell, Pro Bowler ball-carrier Frank Gore, veteran wideout Breshad Perriman, and rookie pass-catcher Denzel Mims.
After winning six of their last 8 games of the 2019 season, the Jets still have a lot to look forward to in the upcoming season. The team will also aim to jockey for a playoff spot for the first time since 2010.
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