Sam Darnold Draft Class Order

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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16-12-2024

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The 2018 NFL Draft is remembered for a quarterback class brimming with potential, and at the center was Sam Darnold. Selected third overall by the New York Jets, his career trajectory, alongside that of his draft mates, provides a fascinating case study in the unpredictable nature of NFL success. This analysis looks back at Darnold's draft class, examining the paths taken by those quarterbacks and evaluating the overall success of the group.

The Top Quarterbacks

Darnold wasn't the only quarterback taken high in the 2018 draft. Baker Mayfield went first overall to the Cleveland Browns, Josh Allen went seventh to the Buffalo Bills, and Josh Rosen was selected tenth by the Arizona Cardinals. Each player presented a unique set of skills and projected NFL success. Mayfield, known for his accuracy and leadership, had a more immediate impact than Darnold, while Allen, with his powerful arm and athleticism, gradually developed into a top-tier quarterback. Rosen, despite possessing impressive talent, struggled to find consistency at the NFL level.

Sam Darnold's Journey

Darnold's early years in New York were marked by inconsistency. He faced challenges adjusting to the NFL game, battling injuries, and navigating a turbulent organizational environment. While flashes of his talent were evident, his overall performance failed to meet expectations. His eventual trade to the Carolina Panthers offered a fresh start, but even there, he faced significant competition for the starting role and has yet to firmly establish himself as a long-term franchise quarterback. His journey highlights the complexities involved in quarterback development in the NFL.

The Rest of the Class

Beyond the top four, several other quarterbacks were drafted in 2018. These players offer a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by quarterbacks entering the league. While some found success as backups or in other roles, many did not achieve the same level of recognition as the top picks. This disparity underscores the difficulty of predicting long-term success in the NFL, even with the benefit of extensive scouting and analysis.

Long-Term Analysis

Evaluating the 2018 quarterback class requires a long-term perspective. The careers of Mayfield, Allen, and Darnold are still unfolding. While Mayfield's career has taken an unexpected turn, Allen's success showcases the potential of even the most seemingly raw prospects. Darnold's journey continues to evolve, while the relative obscurity of others illustrates the challenges in transitioning from college to the professional ranks.

Conclusion: The 2018 NFL Draft's quarterback class continues to generate discussion and debate. The varied success of its members provides a valuable lesson: predicting the future of even the most highly touted prospects in professional football is a precarious endeavor, highlighting the complex interplay of talent, opportunity, and circumstance that ultimately determines success.