Inside look at Sam Darnold's start: Early trends, warning signs

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Nobody is harder on Sam Darnold than Sam Darnold, who insisted upon returning from the New York Jets' mini-bye, "I have to be better. I have to execute better."

After a wildly successful debut, Darnold has regressed into a mini-slump -- a two-game losing streak that includes four interceptions. It's hardly cause for panic. After all, he began his career by starting three games in 11 days, something no rookie quarterback had ever done. So, yes, perspective is important.

At the same time, trends are developing and a picture is forming. With a hat tip to author James Joyce, let's call this, "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Quarterback" -- an inside look at how Darnold…