In the world of NFL drafts, few stories have captured the imagination quite like that of J.J. McCarthy. The Michigan quarterback, once considered a potential pick in the second or third round, has seen his stock skyrocket, now being discussed as a first-round selection. This comes after his pivotal role in leading the Wolverines to a national championship victory in January.
Despite Michigan’s offense leaning heavily on the run, McCarthy’s leadership, athleticism, arm strength, and mechanics have not gone unnoticed. His performance has been so impressive that several mock drafts are now positioning him as a top-five pick for the upcoming draft. This speculation has even led to conversations about whether the New England Patriots might target him with their No. 3 pick.
Scott Zolak, a former Patriots quarterback and current radio host, has openly expressed his newfound admiration for McCarthy. Initially skeptical, Zolak’s perspective shifted dramatically after witnessing McCarthy’s recent workouts. “I’ve watched clips of Caleb Williams and others, but McCarthy’s intensity in every dropback, his footwork, and mechanics might just be the best I’ve seen in years,” Zolak admitted. He compared McCarthy’s performance to that of Trevor Lawrence and Justin Herbert during their pre-draft workouts, acknowledging his initial oversight of McCarthy’s talent.
McCarthy’s recent showcase at Michigan’s pro day only added to the buzz, with key Patriots personnel in attendance. His ascent in the draft rankings suggests that the Patriots might indeed consider him for their No. 3 pick, especially given the glowing endorsements of his abilities and work ethic.
As the draft approaches, McCarthy’s story is a testament to how quickly fortunes can change in the world of professional football. From a potential mid-round pick to a top-tier prospect, his journey is a reminder of the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the NFL draft process.