As the 2024 NFL Draft nears, the buzz around Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy continues to grow, not just for his impressive on-field performances but also for the rising debate over his projected draft value. Amidst mixed reviews from analysts and scouts, former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III has stepped forward to vocally support J.J., countering the criticism that questions McCarthy’s first-round worthiness.
Griffin’s Take on McCarthy’s Skills and Potential
Robert Griffin III, a seasoned voice in football analysis, has made it clear that McCarthy’s potential is underestimated by critics focusing too narrowly on game tape. According to Griffin, the style of offense at Michigan didn’t showcase McCarthy’s full capabilities, leading to a skewed perception of his draft value. Griffin emphasized, “He is a winner. But he has all of the same skills as the rest of the guys in this draft class… JJ has all those things. He just wasn’t asked to do them.”
Griffin further argued that McCarthy’s experience under Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, a former NFL coach himself, has well-prepared J.J. for the professional level. “Well, Michigan didn’t ask him to do that. They asked him to make the right decisions, win football games and he’s been in the NFL style environment,” Griffin noted, highlighting the quarterback’s adaptability and readiness for NFL pressures.
McCarthy’s Stellar College and High School Record
J.J. McCarthy’s track record speaks volumes. With a nearly flawless college career at Michigan, boasting a 27-1 record as a starter, McCarthy has demonstrated leadership and consistency. His journey to a national championship in 2023 was marked by 2,991 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and only four interceptions—an impressive stat line that underscores his ability to perform at high stakes.
The New England Patriots Show Interest
Amidst this rising draft stock, the New England Patriots, holding the No. 3 overall pick, have shown significant interest in J.J. Reports from Christopher Price and Nicole Yang of the Boston Globe noted that J.J. dined with the Patriots, a meeting that J.J. described as “amazing.” The engagement between McCarthy and the Patriots, especially with new coach Jerod Mayo, suggests that New England sees potential in McCarthy as a key piece in their post-Tom Brady era rebuild.
There’s a reason why fans are fans and not in the #NFL.
J.J. McCarthy is a WINNER and NFL scouts, executives, and coaches see that 🔥pic.twitter.com/ZTu3P6dYlT
— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) April 14, 2024
What Lies Ahead for McCarthy
As draft day approaches, the discussions around J.J’s future are intensifying. With his proven record and the endorsement of football veterans like Robert Griffin III, J.J. stands as a compelling candidate for teams looking to secure a transformative talent. The question remains: will the Patriots secure J.J. with their high draft pick, or will another team snatch up this promising quarterback? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—J.J. is a name to watch in the upcoming NFL Draft.
