Apart from Patrick Mahomes, whose name is often taken together with NFL legend Tom Brady, another quarterback’s name emerges — that is none other than 21-year-old J.J. McCarthy. Now that Bucky Brooks has created the latest mock draft, McCarthy’s prospects seem enticing, even though he might not be the first-round pick.
There is a chance that McCarthy will wear the same jersey as Brady. Jim Harbaugh, too, has weighed in to place his opinion and is all praise for the young quarterback.
McCarthy’s comparison to legendary Brady
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According to Brooks’ latest mock draft, McCarthy is the third-ranked quarterback, followed by Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels. The quarterback’s stock soared after the NFL Combine. Interestingly, the New England Patriots will hold onto the No. 3 pick in the upcoming season and could take in McCarthy.
"That's the best I've ever seen a quarterback do at a pro day." – Jim Harbaugh 👀
Big changes in Bucky's latest mock draft 🚨 pic.twitter.com/b5dPYUtftC
— NFL GameDay (@NFLGameDay) March 26, 2024
Even though the NFL Draft is still away, analysts are making predictions pointing out the common aspect between the legend and the rookie. As Brooks identified, “Given Tom Brady’s success with the Patriots, taking McCarthy — the best quarterback in Michigan history — could be the move for Eliot Wolf.”
After helping the Michigan Wolverines finish with a national championship in the College Football Playoff, Michigan star Blake Corum seemed confident about the quarterback. He confidently stated, “I think he’ll have a super-long career. Maybe a Tom Brady, we’ll see,” As a full-time starter, McCarthy completed 68.5% of his passes, which seems to be a better record than Brady. However, the quarterback has to go a long way to touch the NFL GOAT’s record of seven Super Bowl rings. Meanwhile, Jim Harbaugh, too, exhibited his confidence in McCarthy.
Harbaugh’s endorsement of McCarthy’s bright future
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While at the helm of the Michigan Wolverines, Harbaugh had closely watched McCarthy. From his experience, the coach garners an unwavering confidence for the quarterback. Harbaugh doubled down on his assertion by claiming that McCarthy surpasses his contemporaries and commented, “He’s the one who plays quarterback of all the quarterbacks in the draft. There are great quarterbacks in the draft, but I think he plays quarterback the best of any quarterback in the draft.”
The coach seemed confident in McCarthy’s ability to execute the responsibilities of his position. His on-field prowess, complemented by his unwavering determination, will enable him to overcome any hindrance. Harbaugh, too, believes, “Big market, small market. Cold weather, hot weather. It wouldn’t matter.”
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Despite the buzz surrounding highly touted prospects, J.J. McCarthy has been drawn parallel with the only Tom Brady. As time rolls, it is to be seen whose prediction ultimately materializes into reality. What are your thoughts about McCarthy being the next Brady? Let your opinion pour in!