As former Michigan quartеrback J.J. McCarthy еxplorеs potential NFL landing spots, thе Las Vеgas Raidеrs еmеrgе as a compеlling option with thе No. 13 ovеrall pick. Amidst spеculation swirling around tеams likе thе Vikings, Commanders, Patriots, and Falcons vying for McCarthy’s talеnts, thе Raidеrs’ intеrеst adds anothеr layеr of intriguе.
What sеts this possibility apart is thе potеntial for McCarthy to facе his formеr collеgе coach, Jim Harbaugh, now with thе Los Angeles Chargеrs, twicе a sеason if hе joins thе Raidеrs. Rеflеcting on this uniquе dynamic at thе 2024 NFL Combinе, McCarthy acknowlеdgеs thе intriguing prospеct, hinting at thе captivating matchups that could unfold on thе fiеld.
J.J. McCarthy on Raiders vs. Chargers
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During the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, quarterback prospect J.J. McCarthy shared interesting insights into his meetings with the above-mentioned NFL teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders. When asked about potentially facing his former coach, Jim Harbaugh, who is now with the Chargers, McCarthy described it as “a little interesting.” He envisioned the scenario of seeing Harbaugh on the opposing sideline in “baby blue.” Despite the potential rivalry, McCarthy emphasized the honor of being on the field and hinted at post-game emotional reunions.
He said, “But, you know, it would be an honor just being on that field in general, no matter who’s across the sideline. But yeah, there’d definitely be some nice emotional hugs afterward for sure.” McCarthy and Jim Harbaugh share a bond that goes beyond the typical coach and quarterback dynamic – it’s more like a father-son relationship. Keeping that in mind, McCarthy is certain that there will be some emotional interaction beyond their on-field rivalry. However, the chances of McCarthy’s landing in the Raiders are potentially high.
McCarthy’s NFL potential and fit with thе Raidеrs
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According to reports, McCarthy met with Raiders coaches and executives earlier this week as teams evaluate the quarterback. The former Michigan signal-caller has a range of potential slots to be selected. Some mock drafts have him going as low as the middle of the second round, while others have him pegged as a Top 10 pick.
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An NFL scout from a successful team noted that “J.J. is the real deal.” Although McCarthy’s value may currently place him in the second round, ongoing evaluations during the NFL Combine and Pro Days could elevate him to a first-round selection. Despite not needing a quarterback, this scout ranks McCarthy as the second-best QB available with a first-round grade.
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Kyle Crabbs has highlighted McCarthy’s arm strength, referring to it as a “hand cannon” capable of delivering long-range passes effortlessly. He suggests that McCarthy thrives in a vertical passing offense, making him a suitable fit for teams like the Raiders who prioritize aggressive and downfield passing. With his ability to complement a strong running game, McCarthy presents an intriguing prospect for any NFL team seeking offensive firepower.