J.J. McCarthy has been instrumental in Michigan‘s recent success, guiding the team to consecutive undefeated regular seasons and securing two straight wins against arch-rival Ohio State. His focus now is on clinching a third consecutive Big Ten title and achieving Michigan’s first-ever College Football Playoff victory. A key contributor for the past three years and the starting quarterback for the last two seasons, McCarthy understands the finite nature of his college football tenure at Michigan.

With scrutiny and potential changes for the Michigan program, J.J. McCarthy faces a critical decision. While he could return for another shot at championships and a Heisman Trophy in 2024, his talent makes him a likely first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. The decision is solely the player’s, but given his leadership and poise, entering the draft now appears to be an opportune move. McCarthy is projected to be one of the top six quarterbacks taken, possibly going as high as the third pick.

J.J. McCarthy’s NFL Draft eligibility 

J.J. McCarthy, a true junior, initially saw limited action in his freshman year, providing a mobile alternative as needed. Taking over as the starter in his second year, he excelled, securing notable wins, including against Ohio State and a Big Ten title in the 2022 season. McCarthy led Michigan to the College Football Playoffs, finishing with impressive stats.

Following Cade McNamara’s transfer after the 2022 season, McCarthy assumed the starting role in 2023, delivering a strong performance and repeating a victory against Ohio State. Now aiming for a third consecutive Big Ten championship, McCarthy, eligible for the 2024 NFL Draft, is widely expected to pursue a professional career. Projected as a top quarterback pick, he stands among the elite in college football.

J.J. McCarthy’s possible NFL landing spots 

In the challenging landscape of the NFC West, the Seattle Seahawks find themselves in need of a quarterback upgrade, akin to the situation faced by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Geno Smith’s competence falls short of securing the division, prompting the Seahawks to consider options for a more impactful presence under center. Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos, seemingly parting ways with Russell Wilson, might be eyeing a quarterback in the same draft range as the Seahawks. The potential influence of Sean Payton, especially if he assumes the head coaching role, adds intrigue to the quarterback discussion. 

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In Minnesota, the Vikings, rebounding from Kirk Cousins’ injury, stand ready to draft their next quarterback, with J.J. McCarthy emerging as a compelling candidate. Similarly, the Atlanta Falcons, grappling with quarterback issues, may find McCarthy’s poised demeanor as a potential solution. Lastly, the Las Vegas Raiders, in pursuit of a quarterback and potentially reuniting with Jim Harbaugh, present an enticing prospect for McCarthy’s transition to the NFL, adding a layer of intrigue to his professional journey.

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