The New York Jets managed to secure some legitimate talent under center this offseason. However, quarterback Sam Darnold's early absence from training camp has given one of the team's newest additions a chance to shine.

Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has expressed plenty of optimism over his fresh start with the Jets. According to Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk, Bridgewater did not mind getting in extra practice reps with Darnold still holding out:

“You never complain about the reps, we’re actually taking advantage of it because it’s a chance for more work for you, extra work for you, going against a defense like the one that we have, it’s a lot of complex looks and things like that,” Bridgewater said in comments distributed by the team. “So the more the better, that’s the way we see it. You gain knowledge with each play. We continue to remain students of the game and continue to take coaching and continue to control what we can control.”

Unfortunately, the period of extra work was short-lived for Bridgewater as Darnold finally made an appearance after agreeing to terms with the Jets on his rookie deal.

Regardless, it is clear that Bridgewater still has that competitive mindset. There is no doubt that it will serve him well in New York where the position battle at quarterback has drawn some serious intrigue.

Head coach Todd Bowles has indicated that quarterback Josh McCown will be the starter entering camp due to his familiarity with the offense. Meanwhile, it seems to only be a matter of time before the Jets hand the keys over to Darnold.

This has left Bridgewater as the odd-man out thus far going into the 2018 NFL season. However, he knows full well that it is best to always be prepared given the unpredictable nature of the NFL.