NFL
2024 NFL Draft: J.J McCarthy Profile | Height, weight, NCAA statistics and highlights
The Wolverines quarterback is one of the names that will be under the spotlight in the 2024 draft.
In the vocabulary of the National Football League, one name has been on everyone’s lips for a few months now: JJ McCarthy, the iconic quarterback of the University of Michigan.
McCarthy leads a constellation of talent on the Wolverines, along with Blake Corum and Roman Wilson, and is ready to light up the draft stage of the NFL with their presence in the first round that will be held this Thursday in Detroit.
Vintage year for Michigan
After Michigan emerged as the most dominant program by winning the 2023 NCAA title, expectations for this university’s class of 2024 have reached epic levels. Up to 15 men with Michigan backgrounds are expected to be drafted in this year’s draft, demonstrating the caliber of talent flourishing in Ann Arbor. However, in the midst of this constellation of stars, McCarthy shines with a singular brilliance, not only for shooting the ball, but for having a winning mentality.
The quarterback was fundamental in the 13-34 victory over the University of Washington in the last university final.
Recently turned 21, McCarthy is the youngest of the 2024 draft class. Under coach Jim Harbaugh, McCarthy and the Wolverines ended the 2023 season with their best figures in history after winning the 2023 CFP National Championship with a flawless 15-0 record.
McCarthy ended 2023 with a 27-1 record as a starting quarterback, the best across college football in at least the last 50 years. He threw for 2,991 yards - nine short of becoming the fourth single-season passer to reach 3,000 yards in program history with 22 touchdowns, three off the single-season program record.
Despite his genius at developing plays and his mind at reading coverages, McCarthy has been the subject of some controversy due to his height and the style of play in which he has developed at Michigan. Although he is not considered among the top three quarterbacks in his class, his unique blend of skills has caught the attention of NFL scouts, who see him as a diamond in the rough ready to be polished in the big league. Many analysts think that his name will be heard among the first global selections. McCarthy has a prospect grade of 6.40 and is projected to become a good starter within the next two years.
Physical profile
The New York Giants, in particular, could be sniffing around for a quarterback this year, and McCarthy's skills could make him a tempting option if he falls outside the top picks.
Since his decision not to play for Ohio State and don the Wolverines jersey, McCarthy became a university legend.
Height: McCarthy stands at an impressive 6 feet 2.5 inches.
Weight: He weighs approximately 219 pounds (99.3 kg).
Statistics in the NCAA
| Season | Yards thrown | touchdown passes | Interceptions | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 516 | 5 | 2 | 152.3 |
| 2022 | 2,719 | 22 | 5 | 155.0 |
| 2023 | 2,991 | 22 | 4 | 167.4 |
Although his lean physique has raised questions about his ability to gain muscle mass without losing agility, McCarthy has shown at the NFL Combine that he is willing to address these concerns. With an arm described as “good, but not great,” McCarthy can execute a variety of pitches with accuracy, although he may not possess the arm strength of some of his more accomplished colleagues.
With the NFL draft just around the corner, JJ emerges as one of the most intriguing and debated figures on the scene. With his unique blend of talent, intelligence and growth potential, McCarthy is ready to make his mark in the exciting world of professional American football.
McCarthy’s best moments
McCarthy was one of the most acclaimed quarterbacks in his recruiting class. ESPN, Rivals and 24/7 Sports rated him as a nearly five-star recruit, and he was generally considered to be of the same caliber as Caleb Williams, Drake Maye and Quinn Ewers.
In his time as a college player, McCarthy led the University of Michigan to their first national title since 1997. According to Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh, McCarthy is the best QB in the draft, and gushed after watching his Pro Day: “The workout JJ had, I’ve been to a lot of Pro Day workouts and watched quarterbacks. That was the best I’ve ever seen a quarter do at a Pro Day. That was the best throwing day I’ve ever seen. He was no surprise whatsoever”.
The 2024 NFL draft will bring with it memorable moments and several surprise selections, but one thing is certain: the name of JJ McCarthy will be heard for quite some time within the league.