In the NFL, everything is about situation and opportunity, opposed to solely talent.
When evaluating a QB, it’s important that we look at the situation handed to this QB, and if it’s fair to criticize that player. I’m focusing on Sam Darnold who has been presented the worst possible situation in all of football. Even with that, he has played very well. Here’s why he’s by far the most underrated QB in football.
I don’t want to focus solely on stats, but for this stance, I have to bring up statistics to benefit my point of view. Darnold, no question about it, has had to deal with the worst offensive-line for two straight seasons, a below average receiving core, and a bad culture in New York with former GM Mike Maccagnan getting fired right after the 2019 NFL Draft.
With all of those events, he hasn’t even played badly. Here are Darnold’s career stats:
| Year | Team | CMP% | YDS | TD | INT | Rating |
| 2019 | Jets | 61.9 | 3,024 | 19 | 13 | 84.3 |
| 2018 | Jets | 57.7 | 2,865 | 17 | 15 | 77.6 |
| Career | 59.9 | 5,889 | 36 | 28 | 81.1 | |
Obviously, he’s getting better and will continue getting better year by year.
On top of the awful situations presented to him, he’s been unlucky from a health perspective as he’s had to deal with a foot strain his rookie season and mono his sophomore season. When given a full season, I really do believe he could do great things.
He desperately needed help around him though.
That’s what the Jets have done this offseason! They drafted Mekhi Becton in the first round, and filled a lot of holes throughout the rest of draft. It’s obvious their offensive-line is a lot better along with some other parts on the team.
Do not be surprised when Darnold has a great year and the Jets are in playoff contention. You’ll coming back to this article saying one thing:
He was right.
Photo credit: Bill Kostroun/AP
