As the NFL community turns its attention to the Super Bowl, former New York Jets general manager Mike Maccagnan shared his ongoing support for quarterback Sam Darnold, reflecting on the belief he had in the signal caller during his tenure. Maccagnan, who selected Darnold with the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, spoke about the quarterback’s development and the potential he always saw in him.
In interviews this week, Maccagnan emphasized the qualities that made Darnold an appealing prospect coming out of USC: leadership, poise under pressure, and a strong arm. Despite a challenging start to his NFL career in New York, Darnold remained a player Maccagnan believed could succeed under the right circumstances.
“Sam always had the tools and mindset needed to lead a team,” Maccagnan said. “What got overlooked was how much he had to deal with in the early stages of his career. It wasn’t an ideal environment for any young quarterback.”
Darnold spent three seasons with the Jets, compiling inconsistent performances that were affected by coaching changes, roster instability, and injuries. After being traded, he had stops with other teams where he continued to develop, often praised for his resilience and work ethic by teammates and coaches.
Former teammates have echoed Maccagnan’s sentiments in recent days, as Darnold prepares for a potential appearance in the Super Bowl, either as a starter or a key member of his team’s quarterback unit. Many cited his professionalism and quiet determination as reasons for their continued faith in his abilities.
“He’s a competitor, always has been,” said one former teammate. “No matter what he’s been through, he keeps showing up and working. That earns you respect in any locker room.”
As Darnold draws closer to potentially playing on the NFL’s biggest stage, those who were part of his journey continue to voice their support and admiration. For Maccagnan and many others, the belief in Sam Darnold remains strong, serving as a testament to the QB’s character and persistence.
While Darnold’s path to the Super Bowl may not have followed the traditional trajectory of a high draft pick, his experience underscores the unpredictable nature of NFL careers and the importance of long-term development.
