Sam Darnold shows off rare arm talent at Jets training camp

The New York Jets have themselves a gunslinger in quarterback Sam Darnold, and his rare arm talent was on full display in training camp practice this week.

When the New York Jets traded up to the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft, they were hoping to land the franchise quarterback that’s eluded them for years.

It’s only his second season, but it’s already looking like Sam Darnold is the real deal.

The former USC star showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie last season, and as he prepares for his sophomore campaign, Darnold is showing off the arm strength that made him a top-five selection.

New head coach Adam Gase was enamored with Darnold’s ability to sling the ball around the field, praising his quarterback’s rocket arm earlier this week (via team senior reporter Eric Allen):

When he throws it, he can get his whole body into it. He torques his hips and that ball comes flying out of there and it’s accurate. I haven’t seen too many guys throw to the left like he does. It’s impressive.

Despite being just a one-year starter for the Trojans, Darnold showed enough potential to warrant consideration as the potential No. 1 overall pick in 2018. When the Cleveland Browns opted for Baker Mayfield, and the New York Giants passed on a quarterback in favor of Saquon Barkley, it allowed the Jets to snatch up Darnold with the third overall pick.

The early returns are promising, as Darnold has been as impressive with his physical abilities as he has the intangibles that come with playing the game’s most important position. If he continues his current development track, he could easily entrench himself as one of the league’s top passers sooner than later.

Are you expecting big things from Sam Darnold is his second NFL season? Or will he suffer through a sophomore slump? Give us your take in the comment section!