Sam Darnold
AP Photo/Nick Wass

Newly-hired New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas praises quarterback Sam Darnold and the energy he brings. 

When the New York Jets hired new general manager Joe Douglas earlier this month, Douglas said Sam Darnold was a major selling point for him. And deservingly so; that’s no surprise.

Darnold is on the up-and-up as a professional quarterback and will have multiple weapons around him in 2019.

But moving away from his talent, the quality that Douglas really likes about Darnold is the passion he brings. Douglas spoke about that this past week with Steve Serby of the New York Post.

“I love his energy,” Douglas said. “I think he had an infectious energy, and I think he’s got a real love of this game, and I think he has an intense desire to get better every day.”

Darnold was mediocre during his rookie season in 2018. Having thrown 17 touchdowns to 15 interceptions, I’m sure Darnold wishes he performed better. But the second year in the NFL is when quarterbacks really start to come into their role on the field.

Just look at guys such as Mitch Trubisky, Pat Mahomes, Jared Goff and Carson Wentz. What’s stopping Darnold from being in that same category of names?

Douglas also took the time to praise Darnold for his work ethic and his will to improve.

“He just comes across as a genuine young man that wants to get better and wants to be coached,” Douglas said. “And I think he’s got the right people around here to do that.”

All Jets players will report for training camp on July 26. Darnold and the Jets are poised to have a big year, and Darnold has the weapons around him to do so. He’ll have a new head coach in Adam Gase, a new running back in Le’Veon Bell, and a receiving core led by Robby Anderson and Quincy Enunwa.

With that offense and safety Jamal Adams manning the defense, look for the Jets to be contenders in the AFC.

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Ryan Honey is a staff writer and host of the Wide Right Podcast.