https://www.instagram.com/p/B1cX5_plsMd/?igshid=f73tjn6fovo7
New York Jets running back Le’Veon Bell thinks that Sam Darnold is similar to his former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in how he plays.
When the New York Jets signed Le’Veon Bell this offseason, they were hoping that he could help with the development of young quarterback Sam Darnold. While having a stud running back will help Darnold, there’s no doubt that talent is the main factor in whether or not he will make it.
Darnold has continued to impress during practice and Bell has taken note.
In a video posted to Instagram by ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Bell spoke about how he sees similarities between Darnold and his former quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger.
When comparing the two, Bell said, “Sam does similar things. He runs around a little bit if something ain’t there. He can literally launch it and find guys, and hit them right in the numbers.”
Darnold’s ability to play off schedule and improvise was one of his primary calling cards when he played at USC and he showed flashes of that ability in the NFL last season. The fact that he’s continued to make progress there is very encouraging for Jets fans.
His improved accuracy is good too, as turnovers were an issue for him last season. However, many of those were caused by trying to force balls rather than by misplacing throws. As the game continues to slow down for Darnold the turnovers should come down.
Bell spoke about the chemistry they’re developing and how that will help the offense.
“A lot of people don’t understand how important that is. The fact that when I turn around and the ball is there rather than me waiting for the ball. A lot of people don’t understand how that affects maybe the run after.”
What Bell is saying is true. The sooner he gets the ball, the more time he has to see where the defenders are, and the easier it is to avoid them or make them miss when they try to tackle.
Roethlisberger has recorded 56,194 yards with a 94.2 passer rating and a 363:190 TD:INT ratio. He also collected two Super Bowl victories. Jets fans would be very happy if Darnold’s on-field career turned out similar to Roethlisberger.
