How will Sam Darnold progress in Year 3?

The future of the Jets lies squarely with Darnold after the Adams trade, and a lot will hinge on Darnold’s development in his third season in the league.

Darnold proved he has the ability to play at a high level in 2019 – but only in spurts. Yes, the offensive line was horrendous, the playcalling was bad and his offensive weapons weren’t plentiful, but Darnold still made a lot of mistakes. His turnovers, footwork and overall decision-making were problematic, but Darnold did also provide some highlight-worthy plays along the way.

Another year with Gase coupled with new skill position players and a new offensive line should help Darnold progress – and a solid year could set him up for a lucrative contract extension in the ballpark of the one Carson Wentz and Jared Goff earned after their third seasons. Darnold would give the Jets the identity they’ve lacked for some time and give them a great shot at winning the AFC East. The Jets would then know to build quickly around Darnold in free agency and with the bounty of draft picks they added from the Adams trade. 

But, if Darnold falters, then the Jets have a problem. They’ll either have to wait another year to see what they have in their young quarterback or cut bait early and look for a new face of the franchise.