USC quarterback Sam Darnold could be the No. 1 overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft.
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Following rumors brought on by Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com that Darnold could return to play two more seasons, foregoing the big-money NFL contract immediately and an almost certain landing place with the New York Jets.
First-round pick Takk McKinley, a former UCLA standout, is a bit fed up of hearing about Darnold and has made a public callout on the current USC quarterback:
https://twitter.com/Takk/status/884903580825784320
If Darold was eligible, he would have been in the mix as the top choice in the 2017 draft and, with a good season for the Trojans during his redshirt sophomore campaign, Darnold could cement his perch at the summit of NFL Draft rankings.
Here's what Jeremiah noted following a recent trip to Elite 11 camp:
"There was buzz about Darnold's impressive showing in the QB competition at the event. However, when I asked the coaches/staffers what stood out about Darnold, they each mentioned his humility and willingness to learn. He's always asking questions and he doesn't act like he has all of the answers. I also had several sources close to Darnold tell me they wouldn't be surprised if Darnold played two more seasons at USC. As a redshirt sophomore, he can declare for the draft as early as 2018."
It is fair to point out that Darnold would only actually play three seasons if he stuck around for the 2018 college football campaign but, due to a redshirt year, he will be eligible to jump to the NFL after the upcoming season if he so desires. It is hard to imagine Darnold staying if he dominates in the way that some expect, but it wouldn't be unprecedented. If it happens, NFL pundits could be left scrambling.
