The Jets already were trying to build something sustainable, but they were still missing a long-term answer at quarterback. As soon as they drafted Sam Darnold hope and expectations for this team have soared.
The rookie out of USC still has a lot to prove. But the Jets, and many around the league, believe they have finally found the kind of franchise-leading quarterback who could someday end their Super Bowl drought, which is up to 50 years and counting.
The Jets still have holes on both sides of the ball, and the 21-year-old Darnold has plenty to learn and experience before he’s that type of player and leader.