New York Jets: Sam Darnold observations from Redskins game

Here we recap the performance of Sam  Darnold for the New York Jets in their preseason game against the Washington Redskins.

Sam Darnold got the start for the New York Jets in tonight’s game against the Washington Redskins. Here are initial takeaways from his performance:

• He still is making good decisions. His two connections on third down in the first half with Tre McBride were excellent decisions and great throws. One of my favorite plays came on the first drive, when he faced pressure from Ryan Kerrigan and he stepped up to throw the ball away. That was a move that many young quarterbacks don’t make.
• He protected the football. Yes he did throw an interception on a tipped ball but that is going to happen. More impressive was watching Darnold hold the ball with two hands when he got sacked. He didn’t do anything reckless which was a good sign.
• Darnold is patient in the pocket. We have to like the fact that Darnold remains patient in the pocket. Watch his eyes. He scans the whole field and gives his receivers time to get open. That’s special for a young man.
• Don’t hold it too long. Tonight was the first time we saw Sam hold it a little too long. The coverage sack was what it was, but he has to get that ball out of there sooner. He’ll learn and it’s not going to be perfect.
• He looks like he belongs. This is more of an “eye” test observation so take it for what it’s worth. Darnold looks in command of the huddle and like he understands what is going on. Other than the interception that was forced, he looks like a quarterback.

It’s been a long time, has it not?

For the game, Darnold went 9-12 for 75 yards and the one interception. The two most exciting plays to me were the third down conversions. Darnold seems to have good chemistry with Tre McBride. Maybe he makes the team?

Teddy Bridgewater played the second half. It will be interesting to see the quarterback rotation in game number three against the New York Giants.