NFL: The Insiders on Sam Darnold

Darnold's in-rhythm passing (68.7 rating) lags quick throws; Chicago should avoid blitzing.

Darnold's production has declined compared to the previous two seasons. The source identifies a critical split in his performance: on quick throws (under 2.5 seconds), he has a 105.9 passer rating, but on in-rhythm throws (2.5-4 seconds), his rating drops to 68.7. In Week 7 against Kansas City, his average time to throw was 2.45 seconds (his second quickest game in his career), indicating the Seahawks' defense may force him into extended decision-making. The source suggests Chicago should avoid blitzing excessively and instead make Darnold work through progressions, as he struggles when forced to scan multiple options and compress the pocket.

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