New York Jets rookie quarterback Sam Darnold was a surprise addition to the team’s injury report earlier in the week. Fresh off a four-interception performance against the Dolphins last week, the first-year signal caller is dealing with a sprained foot.
While speculation came up over the past couple days that Darnold would not suit up Sunday against the Buffalo Bills, Jets head coach Todd Bowles confirmed as much on Thursday.
Bowles: QB Sam Darnold (foot) has been ruled out as the starter for #BUFvsNYJ
There's a chance he dresses as the No. 2 QB. If he does not, Davis Webb will be activated from the practice squad. pic.twitter.com/oUZAW8s7qF
— New York Jets (@nyjets) November 8, 2018
Given that recent reports suggested Darnold might be out until December, this can’t be considered surprising news. At 3-6 on the season, New York is going nowhere fast this season. It needs to play it safe with the franchise quarterback.
Following some success earlier in the season, Darnold has hit that proverbial rookie wall recently. He’s thrown two touchdowns compared to seven interceptions over the past three games.
With Darnold out of action against the hapless Bills, veteran Josh McCown will get the start. He’s a nice placeholder and one of the NFL’s best backups.