Since being taken with the third overall pick in this year's draft by the New York Jets, there has been a growing expectation that rookie quarterback Sam Darnold will have a clear shot to earn the starting job prior to the 2018 season.

This notion has only gained steam as the regular season approaches. According to Rich Cimini of ESPN, the Jets are putting that opportunity squarely in front of Darnold over the next few weeks in training camp and the preseason.

Does Darnold really have a shot to be the opening day starter?

Yes, he does. If the third overall pick builds on his encouraging spring and plays well in the preseason, he probably will be under center when the Jets open Sept. 10 against the Detroit Lions. If Darnold is neck-and-neck with the vets, he still could get the nod based on the organization's belief that he's the future and will only get better. Basically, it's his job to win.

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At this juncture, veteran quarterback Josh McCown is the early favorite to win that starting gig given that he previously held that position last season prior to suffering a broken hand. New York could be comfortable with rolling out McCown under center to begin the 2018 campaign if Darnold shows that he isn't quite ready out of the gate.

That said, the former USC standout will have every opportunity to grab ahold of that starting job, with the chance to play with the first team in training camp and get reps in the preseason against live action. These next few weeks will be crucial for Darnold to showcase that he is the best option among himself, McCown, and Teddy Bridgewater.

The table is set for the 21-year-old to firmly grab the starting gig with the chance to lead the Jets back to relevancy.

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