Sam Darnold definitely had a season filled with ups and downs with the New York Jets, and his offseason hasn't gotten off to the best start. With the Jets not in the playoffs, Darnold underwent surgery on his left thumb.
The second-year quarterback didn't get off to the start he envisioned having in 2019. After starting in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills, Darnold contracted mononucleosis and was sidelined for a month due to the illness.
In his first game back, the former third-overall pick threw for 338 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Furthermore, the Jets were able to upset the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6. But the following week, Darnold made headlines after saying he ‘saw ghosts' during New York's 33-0 loss to the New England Patriots.
Darnold first appeared on the injury report for a thumb injury sometime later in the season. At first, Darnold was diagnosed with a sprained thumb.
The Jets' hopeful franchise quarterback apparently suffered ligament damage to his non-throwing hand. The young signal-caller chose to put off surgery for the injury until the regular season concluded.
At the least, the Jets finished 6-2 to end the season—including wins against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Bills. Despite his thumb ailment, Darnold ended the season with 3,024 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.
The surgery for Darnold isn't expected to affect his availability in New York's offseason programs. Without a doubt, the Jets want to see the USC product improve in his second season with Adam Gase in 2020.
First and foremost, Darnold has to recover well from his surgery before getting back to work. When he does, it will be vital for him to get back to throwing a football again.
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