Broncos top winless Jets 37-28 for first victory of season
On third-and-6 and the Jets leading by one, Quinnen Williams sacked Brett Rypien — but grabbed the quarterback’s helmet and prolonged the drive. Brian Poole then intercepted Rypien, making his first NFL start, on the Broncos’ next possession, giving the Jets the ball at Denver’s 44. Darnold gave the Jets their first lead of the season with a dazzling run that would make running back teammates Frank Gore and Le'Veon Bell proud. Darnold was able to come back early in the second quarter on the Jets' next series — and was promptly sacked again. The Jets took advantage — eventually.
Jets QB Darnold leaves game after hard sack, then returns
New York Jets quarterback Sam Darnold (14) is sacked by Denver Broncos' A.J. Darnold handed off on the next play, then headed to the sideline and into the locker room. Veteran Joe Flacco, in his first game as New York's backup, took over, but Darnold came back early in the second period. He looked to be severely hurt, but came back for the end of the next series, taking another sack. The Jets also lost defensive lineman Steve McLendon (knee); cornerback Bless Austin (calf); tackle Chuma Edoga (shoulder) in the first period.