Predicting each NFL teams starting quarterback on opening day 2019

New York Jets: Sam Darnold

Just like their AFC East counterparts the Bills, the New York Jets will be entering 2019 with a second-year starting quarterback. Sam Darnold had his struggles in 2018, but there is no question to whether he will be the Jets quarterback come opening day.

As he also did in college, Darnold struggled with turnovers, but at the same time flashed the potential that made him the third overall pick in last year’s draft. Darnold, just like Allen, will benefit with a better supporting cast around him.

Bringing in a more offensive-minded head coach should benefit Darnold and could have a similar impact to when the Rams brought in Sean McVay prior to Jared Goff‘s second season. We could see something like this in New York with Darnold this upcoming season.

Darnold also missed time this year with a foot injury that forced him to miss three games in the middle part of the season. He should benefit with a full NFL offseason and with an upgraded roster and coaching staff going into 2019.

There is no question as to who the Jets are committed to as their franchise quarterback. If Darnold pans out, it will be nice for a franchise that has struggled with quarterback stability. Maybe the USC product will be the one that ends the franchise’s long Super Bowl drought.