Sam Darnold took an extra measure to ensure that his spleen will be protected when he returns from mononucleosis Sunday against the Cowboys.
The Jets quarterback had special pads made to provide extra protection through the midsection to protect his spleen, according to NFL Network, because standard football pads don't provide that type of protection for the organ located in the upper far left part of the abdomen. The report adds Darnold went through multiple fittings and the pads were modeled off a set made for Panthers QB Cam Newton.
#Jets QB Sam Darnold returns Sunday against the #Cowboys, and he’ll have extra protection for his spleen — special pads modeled off a set made for Cam Newton. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/e1xWBUPbE6
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 11, 2019
Darnold, 22, is set to make his return after missing the team's last three games because of the illness. The Jets were cautious in allowing Darnold to return as his spleen was enlarged and it could have ruptured from a hit if he returned too early.
The quarterback said Thursday he doesn't have any concerns about possibly taking a hit.
"When I'm out there playing, I'm not worried about guys hitting me or anything," Darnold told reporters Thursday. "I'm trusting the guys up front to do their thing, and I'm trusting the receivers to get open when it's time to pass the ball. For me, it's all about trust."
He added: "When I do get hit, I know I'm not in danger anymore. They're letting me go out there and play because it's safe, so I'm not worried about that."
Darnold, selected by New York with the No. 3 pick in the 2018 draft, completed 28 of 41 passes for 175 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions in his lone start this year, a loss to the Bills in Week 1.
The Jets (0-4) host the Cowboys (3-2) Sunday with kickoff set for 4:25 p.m. ET.