NFL Analyst Reveals Discouraging Take On JJ McCarthy

Despite the hype, Kelly draws a comparison between McCarthy’s pre-draft hype and that of another NFL quarterback, but it’s not a flattering one.

“This is what we did with Zach Wilson,” Kelly remarks.

Wilson, whose record as a starter stands at 12-21, is widely regarded as a draft disappointment after being picked second overall in 2021.

However, Kelly isn’t completely pessimistic about McCarthy’s potential.

He acknowledges that McCarthy could develop into a solid starting quarterback in the NFL.

McCarthy comes into the NFL Draft fresh off leading Michigan to its first NCAA title since the 1990s, boasting an impressive record of 36-2 as a starter for the Wolverines. Additionally, he was a finalist for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award in 2023, completing over 72% of his passes for 2,991 yards and 22 touchdowns that season.

Exiting Michigan after his junior year, McCarthy departs alongside his former coach, Jim Harbaugh, who is now at the helm of the Los Angeles Chargers.

Mock drafts project JJ McCarthy as a potential selection as early as the No. 12 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, with the Denver Broncos being one of the speculated destinations.