Following a successful stint with Michigan, the team’s quarterback, JJ McCarthy, recently followed the wave of declaration of the NFL draft to enter the NFL world. His decision catapults him into the spotlight of the 2024 NFL Draft, as he joins a prestigious class of quarterbacks that includes standout players such as 2023 Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Caleb Williams and more.
Meanwhile, Jim Harbaugh, who recently began his head coaching career with the Chargers, has made bold predictions about McCarthy’s prospects, elevating him above other talented quarterbacks in the draft class.
Jim Harbaugh lauds JJ McCarthy
In a recent appearance on “The Herd” with Colin Cowherd, Jim Harbaugh, the former coach of JJ McCarthy couldn’t help but shower praise on his former player as the highly touted quarterback.
Harbaugh shared his glowing predictions about McCarthy’s future in the NFL, emphasizing the young quarterback’s arm talent, athleticism, and winning mentality.
“Arm talent, athleticism, it-factor, winning with numbing repetition. Don’t be surprised if, when he’s the No. 1 quarterback off the board. That’s my prediction right now. When people get a load of J.J. and how he can throw the ball, how he spins it, his athleticism, his intelligence,” told Harbaugh during his conversation with Cowherd, per the NY Post.
The former Michigan coach who recently joined the Chargers, reiterated his sentiments during another appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show.” In this show, he also doubled down on his prediction for McCarthy to emerge as the No. 1 quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft.
“Let me make a prediction. Don’t be surprised if he goes all the way to No. 1 quarterback off the board,” Harbaugh told.
Despite the commendations, Harbaugh’s Chargers, currently holding the fifth pick in the draft, are unlikely to select McCarthy. The presence of Justin Herbert, who secured a five-year extension last offseason, also diminishes the possibility of a reunion between McCarthy and Harbaugh in Los Angeles.
JJ McCarthy’s performance for Michigan
JJ McCarthy left an indelible mark on the Michigan Wolverines during his two-year stint. It ultimately culminated in a College Football National Championship following the 2023 season.
In his role as Michigan’s full-time starter, the young star displayed consistency and prowess in 29 games. The team experienced unprecedented success with him at the helm, boasting an impressive combined record of 28-1 during his tenure.
Over the course of these two seasons, he completed an impressive 68.5% of his passes for 5,710 yards, amassing 44 touchdowns and just nine interceptions. McCarthy’s ability to carry the team on his shoulders was evident in his arm talent and strategic use of his legs when needed. In the most recent season, he recorded 2,991 passing yards, 22 passing touchdowns, and an impressive 167.4 passer rating.
Additionally, he completed an outstanding 72.3% of his passes. The former Michigan player’s versatility extended to his running game, contributing 202 yards and three rushing touchdowns.
Beyond the statistics, McCarthy earned a reputation as one of the best teammates and leaders in Wolverine history. His individual accolades also shed light on his impact on the Wolverines.
He received All-Big Ten selections (third team, coaches, second team, media) in 2022 and earned the title of Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week on multiple occasions. Furthermore, McCarthy’s commitment to academic excellence was recognized with two-time Academic All-Big Ten honors (2022–23).
His stunning resume suggests a promising future for the young quarterback, like his former coach predicted.
