Sam Darnold speaks about importance of Josh McCown

As the New York Jets prepare for their season opener with a rookie under center, there is no mistaking the importance of veteran quarterback Josh McCown. Even Sam Darnold is thankful.

For a rookie quarterback, a veteran mentor alongside him is such an important part of the growth process. Such is the case with Sam Darnold and Josh McCown, two quarterbacks that have bonded for months now doing their best to make the New York Jets a competitive team.

The quarterback position is easily the most important spot on the team as the Jets wisely brought back McCown for Darnold’s rookie year. McCown has done so much for Darnold since he was selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft that it helped earn him the starting job.

Now, Darnold is ready to start for the Jets with all eyes on him on the Monday Night Football season opener on the road against the Detroit Lions. Darnold knows he’s in a great situation with the Jets thanks to all the coaching, training, and mentoring by McCown.

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In an article written by Rich Cimini of ESPN, here is what Darnold said about McCown’s importance:

“Josh is the best, for what he’s been able to do for me,” Darnold said. “These past couple of months have been amazing. Words really can’t describe what he’s been able to do for me.”

In the grand scheme of things, Darnold couldn’t have asked for a better veteran quarterback by his side through every step of the way. McCown is the consummate professional on and off the field and is such a high character player to have in the locker room, even if he’s not playing he’s still having a huge positive impact involving everyone around him.

If Darnold ends up being the next franchise quarterback of the Jets for many years to come, in the future, fans will remember McCown for being the driving force in his success. Even in a backup role, McCown is ready to do whatever it takes to help Darnold achieve greatness and for the team to continue building its foundation for a brighter future.