Jets QB Sam Darnold has high hopes for college, pro teammate Chuma Edoga

The New York Jets just signed third-round pick Chuma Edoga, and his new quarterback is a familiar face who expects him to be a huge success at the next level.

Heading into the 2019 NFL draft, the Jets knew they needed to upgrade the offensive line. After acquiring veteran Kelechi Osemele in a trade with the Oakland Raiders, they had shored up one of their guard positions, but finding young depth to develop at the tackle spot was still a high priority.

With the second of their two third-round picks, the Jets took a chance on boom-or-bust prospect from USC in Chuma Edoga, who is hoping to make the most of his chance in the pros.

Edoga, who just signed his rookie contract with the Jets, brings a promising skill set to the table. He’s looking forward to the chance to protect quarterback Sam Darnold, just as he did when both players suited up for the Trojans on Saturdays (via team contributor Randy Lange):

I like to use my athleticism and play with aggressiveness, try to get off the ball and hit somebody in the mouth.

I blocked for Sammy D in college, and to block for him in the NFL, it’s a blessing, a dream come true.

He’s not the only one excited about his NFL landing spot. Darnold is thrilled to have the opportunity to play with his college teammate again, this time at the game’s highest level:

I’m just really excited for him, just as a friend, for him to be able to get drafted where he was drafted and for us to take a chance on him, I think it’s going to pay off for this organization in the future. I see him really excelling in the NFL.

Edoga still needs plenty of polish before he’s ready to be an NFL starter. But with a pair of veterans in Kelvin Beachum and Brandon Shell holding down the starting tackle spots on both sides, he should have time to smooth out the rough edges in his game before cracking the starting lineup.

The Jets could have opted for a more pro-ready prospect, but they’re playing the long game with Edoga, and both he and Darnold believe it will pay off for the Gang Green in the end.

When do you expect Edoga to earn a starting spot? Was he a smart pick by the Jets on draft weekend? What are your long-term expectations for him? Give us your take in the comment section!