One of the more divisive candidates heading into the 2024 NFL Draft is Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy. McCarthy was the starting quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines for the final two seasons. As a sophomore, he made it to the College Football Playoffs, and as a junior, he won the National Championship. McCarthy wasn’t Michigan’s offensive engine, though, unlike many other elite quarterback prospects who were, despite the team’s success.
McCarthy completed 72.3 percent of his 332 completion attempts in 2023 for 2,291 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. McCarthy added three more scores and 202 yards gained via the air. McCarthy lacks the output to compete, though, especially compared to other elite quarterback prospects like Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Michael Penix Jr., all of whom passed for over 3,500 yards.
But the fact that he was a member of a team that won a championship is not his fault. McCarthy deserves credit for answering his phone when it was called. To ensure they select the best quarterback in the draft, clubs must pose these queries to one another. NFL teams are curious to know exactly how talented J.J. McCarthy is, despite his obvious potential.
The New Orleans Saints are one squad that may be arguing that point. Without a doubt, the Saints still need to select their quarterback of the future, and one pundit thinks McCarthy may be that player.
Still, it isn’t his fault that he was a member of a team that won a title. To McCarthy’s credit, he did deliver when his number was called. However, in order to ensure they select the best quarterback in the draft, clubs must pose these queries. While J.J. McCarthy is undoubtedly gifted, NFL teams are curious about just how talented he is.
The New Orleans Saints are one club that may be discussing that issue. The Saints undoubtedly still need to identify their quarterback of the future, and one analyst thinks McCarthy may be that player.
