Michigan Pro Day: 7 Head Coaches, 9 GMs Attend to Scout J.J. McCarthy and Co. in Ann Arbor

Michigan Wolverines’ quarterback J.J. McCarthy doesn’t seem disturbed by the intense scrutiny. With a record-breaking crowd of over 150 NFL personnel, including nine general managers, watching his every throw, McCarthy emerged confident about his performance. This turnout wasn’t just for show. 

While the Pro Day featured 18 draft-eligible Wolverines, the staggering attendance clearly showed J.J. McCarthy’s rising draft stock. With teams like the Bears and Giants (holding the coveted sixth pick) sending representatives, the spotlight in Ann Arbor shone brighter than expected. However, McCarthy seems ready to handle the pressure as he takes the next step in his football career.

Top teams flock to see Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy

All eyes were on J.J. McCarthy and Co. at Michigan’s Pro Day, with a ton of NFL scouts watching every move of the quarterback. Michigan insider Alejandro Zúñiga recently reported staggering numbers on his X handle. “In attendance at Michigan’s Pro Day: 154 NFL personnel, 9 General Managers, 7 Head Coaches, 22 Position Coaches, 11 Coordinators.”

Denver’s GM, George Paton, led the charge, with representatives from the Bears, Giants, Dolphins, Patriots, Steelers, 49ers, Cowboys, and Commanders joining him. That’s a whopping nine general managers. Head coaches also mirrored the GM turnout, with seven showing up (except for the 49ers, Giants, and Broncos). However, the Chargers’ head coach, also Michigan’s former head coach, Jim Harbaugh, made a special appearance. The talent hunt didn’t stop there. Offensive and defensive coordinators, lineman coaches, and even quarterback coaches were all present, hoping to see if McCarthy could solve their quarterback woes.

The star QB’s draft destination is up in the air

Michigan’s star quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, solidified his draft stock with a stunning 60-yard touchdown pass to Blake Corum at his Pro Day. This throw showcased his ability to make all the throws needed in the NFL, making him an attractive option for teams desperate for a franchise quarterback. Not only that, McCarthy’s Combine performance further upheld his reputation. Despite skipping the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, and broad jump, his impressive height (around 6 feet 3 inches), 219-pound frame (up from 202 pounds), and agility drills (6.82 seconds in the 3-cone and 4.23 seconds in the shuttle) solidified his place among the Top 10 quarterbacks in the 2024 draft.

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Teams like the Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings, and Las Vegas Raiders are all in the running to select him early. However, big names from the Vikings were absent on the Pro Day. After acquiring a second first-round pick last week, Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah hinted at a “preferred scenario” that might involve a quarterback — likely McCarthy. Also, the New York Giants, holding the sixth pick, are interested in McCarthy, but they might need to trade up if they want to secure him. With so many teams eyeing him, McCarthy’s draft selection will surely be a major storyline in the 2024 NFL Draft. Let us know your thoughts on this in the comments below.

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