2018 NFL Mock Draft: Complete first round through Pro Days
3. player. 30. Scouting Report. Quarterback. Pick Analysis. USC Trojans. Sam Darnold
USC Trojans superstar quarterback Sam Darnold is a good middle ground between Allen and Rosen. Since Darnold is not the most NFL-ready of the group, but he seems to have a lower floor than Allen, he’s a good bet for a team in the situation of the New York Jets.
The Jets traded up to get the pick of the Indianapolis Colts, and gave up a ton in the process. Indy got a ton of valuable picks in return, which shows the Jets are committed to one of these quarterbacks, or they really like another top prospect in this class.
Darnold can move in the pocket, hit almost any pass when he’s on, and showed throughout his college career that he can come through in the clutch. His last postseason with the Trojans, losing in a New Year’s Six Bowl matchup with the Ohio State Buckeyes was the biggest blemish on his resume.
However, Darnold is a good fit with the Jets. If he’s still available after the first two picks of the first round, the Jets need to jump on that opportunity and get him. This all comes down to whichever quarterback is available at No. 3 between Allen, Darnold, and Rosen.