JJ McCarthy ‘s draft stock has skyrocketed in the last few weeks. From starting at as high as the mid-20s to 30s pick, the National Championship with the Michigan Wolverines is projected to be a top-10 pick and may even go as high as a No. 4 in the draft.
McCarthy is a wild card in every sense of the word. Despite being 27-1 in his college career, several scouts wrote him off for being a system player.
They thanked former Michigan and current Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh for the success. However, Harbaugh himself batted for the young quarterback, claiming whichever team picks him will be set for a decade.
If McCarthy had the chance to play under his former coach in LA, he would grasp that opportunity with both arms. That door is closed for good, but the 21-year-old has an inkling of where he could play in 2024.
While appearing on Wednesday’s draft special segment of the Rich Eisen Show, McCarthy highlighted the team that has shown the most interest in him.
I have somewhat of an idea. New York Giants, I’ve spent the most time with. They’re phenomenal staff—I love Coach Daboll, [GM] Mr. Joe Schoen, [quarterbacks] Coach [Shea] Tierney, [offensive coordinator] Coach Kafka. JJ McCarthy told Rich Eisen
He met the Giants representatives three times and even visited the facility in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Can the New York Giants draft JJ McCarthy?
The Giants currently hold the No. 6 pick in the draft per Tankathon, and the rumor is McCarthy could be taken as high as 3rd or 4th, which are occupied by the New England Patriots and the Arizona Cardinals. If they seriously consider adding him to the team, trading him up is the only option available.
According to NFL Network‘s Peter Schrager, the Giants have the chance to go through with it.
New York moves up two spots, tossing Arizona this year's third-round pick (No. 70 overall) and next year's second-rounder [and] landing McCarthy. I could see this deal coming to fruition. Joe Schoen didn't draft Daniel Jones; J.J. checks a lot of boxes, and Big Blue can get out of Jones' contract after this upcoming season. Schrager said.
However, there’s also the possibility of the Minnesota Vikings jumping up the ladder and making a proposal to either the Patriots or the Cardinals. McCarthy previously said that it would be an honor to play for Kevin O’Connell.
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