Jets rookie quarterback Sam Darnold outdueled the Packers' Aaron Rodgers for most of Sunday's game.
But even though Rodgers finished with more passing yards and led Green Bay to three late touchdown drives, including the game-winning one in overtime, the Super Bowl champion Rodgers praised the 21-year-old Darnold after the Jets lost 44-38 at MetLife Stadium.
"I like his game," Rodgers said, according to the New York Daily News' Manish Mehta. "He threw the ball really well. He's moving around making throws on the run. I think he has a bright future."
Rodgers threw for 442 yards and finished with two passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns, but Darnold had his best game as a Jet on Sunday.
The No. 3 pick threw for a career-high 341 yards and tied a career high with three touchdowns, also leading New York to a game-tying field goal drive after Rodgers gave the Packers a 38-35 lead with 1:12 remaining in the fourth.
After Andre Roberts' 51-yard kickoff return set the Jets up at the Green Bay 38, Darnold orchestrated a six-play, 23-yard drive in 55 seconds to set up a Jason Myers 33-yard field goal that tied the game at 38.
But Darnold never got a chance in overtime. Green Bay won the toss, elected to receive and then drove 75 yards downfield, a 16-yard touchdown pass from Rodgers to Davante Adams ending the game.
Even so, Darnold's teammates were beyond impressed with their quarterback's composure.
"He's more confident," Robby Anderson said. "The playbook is opening up. ... We're building that chemistry. That's what it's about. It's going to take time. I think we're taking the steps in the right direction."
Added Jermaine Kearse: "I truly believe that this kid is going to be a star. This organization and this fan base have a lot to look forward to with this guy."