To succeed as a quarterback in the NFL, it helps to get lucky. Even for the most highly touted prospects and naturally gifted passers, surroundings can make or break careers. Following an uninspiring seven-year run in Miami, Ryan Tannehill was available for a fourth-round pick and a bag of kicking tees last spring. But after just 10 games in the QB-friendly Titans’ system, Tannehill was suddenly worth $91 million guaranteed. Where you land — and the coaching staff you land with — can define a quarterback’s football life. If you don’t believe me, just ask Sam Darnold.
A heralded prospect coming out of USC, Darnold was considered a no-brainer top 5 pick and, in many evaluator’s eyes, the best quarterback in a loaded 2018 class. The Jets eventually traded up three spots to nab Darnold with the No. 3 pick, and what’s followed is a study in how to squander a promising young passer. Even if Darnold had the potential to develop into…
