Protecting Darnold the top priority for O-line

The Jets have a dire need to protect Sam Darnold and open holes to create running space for Le’Veon Bell, and early in training camp it looks as if it’s a top priority.

During the 2018 season, the Jets allowed Darnold to be sacked 30 times. Bell, who was added to the roster during free agency on a $52.5 million deal, already is proving he will be a critical asset.

“We are looking to execute, getting a hand on the playbook, it’s all about executing,” offensive tackle Kelvin Beachum said. “Any time you have a quarterback throwing the ball there’s a sense of urgency. Your job is to find time for any quarterback. It’s not because Sam is there that there is an increased sense of urgency, our number one priority is to always protect the quarterback.”

Beachum has started all 16 games in both of his seasons with the Jets. The 30-year-old will be joined on the left side of the line by Kelechi Osemele, who was acquired from the Raiders to replace James Carpenter, who left for the Falcons in free agency after four seasons with the Jets.

“If you provide a crease, provide a hole, and you move in the fashion we need to move people, they’ll find their way,” Beachum said of blocking for Bell. “With any running back, you’ve got to find a hole or a crease and make it work to make us look good. It goes hand and hand.”

Adam Gase has high expectations for his offensive line. With new offensive line coach Frank Pollack, playcalling will be transformed. The focus will remain the same, however: protecting Darnold.

“The best O-lines I’ve been around are the guys that make sure nobody is going to hit the quarterback,” Gase said. “They want to see the quarterback at the end of the game. If he’s wearing white pants, they’ve got to make sure they’re still white.”