Behind-the-scenes look at how Sam Darnold has impressed Jets

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- After three months of post-draft hype, quarterback Sam Darnold makes his New York Jets debut Friday night against the Atlanta Falcons. The stakes are huge.

Darnold, picked third overall, has a legitimate chance to be the opening-day starter. After seven practices (he missed three due to a contract dispute), the organization's expectation level has only risen. He's had some rookie hiccups (five interceptions), but he also has provided a handful of wow plays each day.

While the Jets' quarterback-starved fan base waits for the public unveiling, Darnold's new teammates already have formed impressions based on his demeanor in the huddle, in the classroom and in the locker…