JJ McCarthy (QB) – Michigan / Junior
6’2-1/2″, 219 Lbs. (Combine)
2022 Stats: 14 Games, 208 CMP, 322 ATT, 64.6 CMP%, 2719 YDS, 8.4YPA, 22 TD, 5 INT, 155 QBR
2023 Stats: 15 Games, 240 CMP, 332 ATT, 72.3 CMP%, 2991 YDS, 9YPA, 22 TD, 4 INT, 167.4 QBR
{Reference: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/jj-mccarthy-1.html}
Awards:
Measurables (Combine):
| Hand | Arm | Wing |
| 9″ | 31-5/8″ | 75-7/8″ |
| 40-Dash | 10-Split | Vertical | Broad | 3-Cone | 20-Shuttle | Bench |
| *** | *** | *** | *** | 6.82 sec | 4.23 sec | *** |
RAS: (Available post-combine/pro day)
Games Watched: 2024 Vs. Alabama, 2023 Vs. Nebraska
PRO’S
In 2023, McCarthy led the Big 10 in completion percentage with 72.3% and was #2 in the Big 10 in pass completions with 240. McCarthy’s PFF Passing grade of 87.9 is 5th amongst draft eligible QBs and his PFF rushing grade of 78 is 4th amongst draft eligible QBs. Great size for a QB, 6’3”/197 Lbs. Clutch performer, McCarthy’s 47.5% 3rd and long (7+ yards) completion percentage was best amongst all QBs. Experience in a pro-style offense. Throw 1st QB but very mobile/athletic, 508 rushing yards on 134 attempts over the last 2 seasons. Does a great job of avoiding contact in the pocket and buying additional time. One of McCarthy’s most impressive throws came against Alabama in the CFB playoffs, a double pass was called, The RB took the hand off right, threw back left to JJ, JJ had to reach up and snag the ball with one hand, with defenders in his face McCarthy made a beautiful off balance pass to a wide open Roman Wilson in stride. Arm strength, consistently throws a tight spiral with zip. Another impressive throw from McCarthy came against Nebraska, 2nd QTR, :33 left. McCarthy takes the snap from shotgun, avoids rush in the pocket by spinning and rolling out to his left, gets outside the numbers with rusher trailing, approaches the LOS and releases an absolute dart on the money to Roman Wilson crossing the back of the end zone from right to left.
CON’S
Though McCarthy was the QB of the National Champion Michigan Wolverines, he was not the driving force behind the teams success, that was Blake Corum. McCarthy will need to prove he can be the driving force behind leading a team to victory, rather than just a key contributor. Would like to see him more consistently drive through his throws, some of McCarthy’s easier/short yardage completions die as they’re getting to the receiver forcing the receiver to slow down at the catch point. Struggles a bit with accuracy outside the hash marks/seems. Struggles with touch at times, will fire bullets when a ball floated with some air under it is a better option. McCarthy depends on his athleticism a bit too much, will leave a clean pocket too often/early.
OVERALL
On paper, I wasn’t overwhelmingly impressed with what it appeared J.J. McCarhty brought to the table for the Wolverines. After watching McCarthy’s film, I believe he has a lot of the essential tools needed to be a successful NFL QB. I feel confident in saying that McCarthy’s best football is still ahead of him. Of the 2nd tier QBs (Bo Nix (24 years old), Michael Penix (24 years old)), McCarthy is the youngest option having just turned 21. I’m excited to see how McCarthy looks next to the rest of this QB class at the NFL combine. If McCarthy shines in Indy, he can cement himself as a 1st round selection.
Completed by: @coachschepps, 02/12/24
Reviewed & edited: J. Clark, 02/12/24
Updated: 03/03/24
