The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine is grabbing the attention of sports fans. One thing noticed in Indianapolis is the growing excitement around former Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy. While former USC QB Caleb Williams is likely to be the top pick in the draft, it’s been expected that Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels will follow as the next quarterbacks chosen. But after the NFL Combine, McCarthy is gaining attention as a potential third pick.

Since then, there’s been a lot of talk comparing Jayden Daniels and J.J. McCarthy for the third QB spot. Yet, in a recent post, Deion Sanders Jr. has criticized such comparisons in his style. 

Deion Sanders Jr shuts down pre-draft comparisons

NFL analyst Mike Tannenbaum recently commented on the Wolverines’ quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, comparing him to LSU’s Jayden Daniels. “If he had played for LSU, What would his stats look like? They’d look a lot closer to Jayden Daniels. If Jayden Daniels was at Michigan, his stats would look a lot closer to J.J. McCarthy,“ he said. Tannenbaum believes that if the two quarterbacks swapped schools, McCarthy’s stats would have been impressive, boosting his draft prospects. 

Last season, McCarthy threw for 2,991 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions, with a completion percentage of 72.3%. He also rushed for 202 yards and 3 touchdowns. Daniels, on the other hand, had 3,812 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions, with a completion percentage of 72.2%. He rushed for 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Deion Sanders Jr shared this comparison post on his Instagram story and criticized it, saying, “Bro y’all gotta stop the weird shit….y’all making it obvious at this point.“ It’s evident that Sanders Jr doesn’t appreciate these draft comparisons that seem forced. However, fans and analysts continue to compare the quarterbacks and their stats to gauge their draft positions.

Can stats settle the Daniels-McCarthy QB race?

Heading into the NFL Combine, it seemed almost certain that Daniels would be the third quarterback chosen. However, some fans and analysts suggest otherwise. While Daniels boasts superior statistics, McCarthy captained Michigan to a stunning College Football Playoff National Championship victory over Washington this past January.

This unexpected win, coupled with Daniels’ uncertain draft position, has shifted the focus of some analysts, making McCarthy a surprise contender to be drafted before Daniels in April.

Read More: 2024 NFL Combine: J.J. McCarthy’s Draft Stock Skyrockets After Formal Meetings With 11 Teams, Including Broncos and Patriots

Setting comparisons aside, both are key quarterbacks for their respective teams. As the draft nears, it’s vital to assess each prospect on their own merits.  The focus should be on their unique strengths and potential, rather than forced superficial comparisons. Deion Sanders Jr seems to be spot on with his opinion, and many seem to agree with him. What do you think?  Do you agree with Sanders Jr? Share your thoughts below.