Sam Darnold hasn’t looked overmatched in his first NFL training camp. The Jets rookie quarterback has shown poise, mobility and confidence during hot August practices when each time he takes a snap or drops back his every move is scrutinized and judged.
Now Darnold will really be under the microscope.
The Jets kick off the preseason Friday night at MetLife Stadium against the Falcons, which also could be called the unofficial start of the Darnold Era.
He acknowledged he’ll probably be a little emotional. How Darnold performs now that the action is real and he’s facing real pressure in these four exhibition games will determine whether he will start in the regular-season opener in Detroit Sept.