Despite Underwhelming NFL Combine, Ex-49ers Star Boosts J.J. McCarthy’s Draft Stocks With a Reality Check

J.J. McCarthy seems to receive constant attention in the NFL landscape. Even though there have been high hopes surrounding the quarterback, his latest performance at the NFL Combine seems to have robbed off all the aspirations. However, former San Francisco 49ers player, Louis Riddick has stepped in to reconceptualize the Combine results. 

Being a respected voice in NFL circles, he weighed in on McCarthy’s situation. McCarthy did not take part in running due to hamstring tightness. However, he did participate in throwing drills that demonstrated his passing skills as a quarterback. While many were disappointed, Riddick emerged as the beacon of optimism as far as McCarthy was concerned.

Rallying behind the former 49ers player’s prediction, The Woodward Sports Network made a post asking for the fans’ opinion about what rank they are going to give the player, in the comment by leaving a blank in the caption, “J.J. McCarthy is the ___ best Quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft”. What followed was Riddick’s quote, “If you actually studied him, you would see why many in the NFL are very optimistic about his potential”. This opens up a wider discussion about the strengths that the Michigan quarterback possesses and at what number he will be drafted.

With a remarkable 36-2 record as a high school starter, the 21-year-old athlete is regarded as a top-tier arm talent. Besides, he owns a great speed for a quarterback. But most importantly, McCarthy winning the national championship in 2023 reigns supreme opening his way to multiple options in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. His own coach, Jim Harbaugh had placed him as the No. 1 pick, calling him the best QB in Michigan’s history, but the reality remains to be seen.

Exploration of McCarthy’s potential landing spots

With McCarthy expected to be a first-round pick, he seems to have a bright future and is to land in spots best fitted for him. Led by the youngest coach in the NFL, Seattle Seahawks seems to be an intriguing possibility. The Seahawks’ vision to build a strong running game, perfectly aligns with the quarterback’s strengths. Besides, McCarthy is going to develop essential skills from Geno Smith who holds the QB1 position in the program.

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Pittsburgh Steelers under the guidance of new OC, Arthur Smith emerge as another potential destination for him. With Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris in the backfield, McCarthy will have enough opportunity to improve himself. However, the Atlanta Falcons emerges as the top landing spot for the athlete. The program’s top-10 rushing offense will add to the appeal of the program. 

The Woodward Sports Network interestingly leaves the numerical ranking blank in their caption leaving it to the future. Now that the 2024 NFL Draft is knocking at the door, the truth will be revealed about J.J. McCarthy’s value in the competitive landscape and his ultimate destination.

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