Throughout the last few months, New York Jets rookie quarterback Sam Darnold has made headway in his efforts toward earning the starting job to begin the 2018 season.
On Monday, head coach Todd Bowles officially named Darnold as the starter, saying the USC product has “earned the right” to start for the upcoming campaign, according to Ralph Vacchiano of Sportsnet New York.
Todd Bowles on Sam Darnold: "We feel like he gives us a good chance to win. We're not starting him because he's a rookie and not ready. He gives us a good chance to win. … He's earned the right to start."
— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) September 3, 2018
This decision shouldn't come as much of a surprise given that the Jets gave him plenty of the opportunities to secure the starting job this offseason, as he was in direct competition with Josh McCown and Teddy Bridgewater. However, the trade of Bridgewater was a clear signal that New York was moving toward Darnold earning the starting job, in addition to his strong play in the preseason.
Bridgewater was in the running to earn the starting job with his play. Instead, that performance allowed the Jets to move him to acquire additional draft assets ahead of the start of next season.
OFFICIAL: QB Sam Darnold will open the season as the starter. pic.twitter.com/IOgb1B6yNc
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 3, 2018
Darnold has shown plenty of promise with his play on the field in the preseason, completing 21-of-29 passes for 158 yards with a touchdown and an interception while being sacked three times. He has demonstrated poise in the pocket while displaying command of the offense that is reminiscent of a veteran quarterback. There were some bumps along the way, as he did throw an interception against the Washington Redskins on a forced throw in tight coverage.
With the starting job under his belt to begin his rookie campaign, Darnold has a chance to put his imprint on the franchise by proving he can be the long-term answer under center while leading them to much success on the field immediately. This now marks the beginning of a new era in New York.