JJ McCarthy named a player to watch in the 2024 Draft class by Pro Football Focus

The Michigan Wolverines have some high expectations this fall, and their starting quarterback shares the same pressure. Recently, JJ McCarthy, the starting QB for Michigan football, was named a “player to watch” leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft. Given that he has been projected as a top 20 draft pick by major analysts, this news comes as no surprise to loyal fans. Nevertheless, the Wolverines’ starting QB is attracting significant national attention and undoubtedly faces the challenge of meeting those expectations this fall.

Michigan football starting QB JJ McCarthy facing massive expectations

For the Michigan football program as a whole, nothing less than a third-straight Big Ten title, a College Football Playoff (CFP) appearance, and a victory over Ohio State seems satisfactory. As the Wolverines are currently ranked among the top two teams in the nation, it appears quite possible that JJ McCarthy and his teammates will secure a spot in the national title game.

For JJ McCarthy individually, who came close to breaking the Wolverines’ single-season passing touchdowns record last season, numerous records and accomplishments are still within reach. In fact, McCarthy has been associated with several records and achievements, including the prestigious Heisman Trophy.

Furthermore, in addition to the immense personal expectations placed on him as a college quarterback, JJ McCarthy is also considered a prominent prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft. Pro Football Focus, the renowned sports analytics outlet, recently designated him as a player to watch in this year’s draft.

PFF’s take on JJ McCarthy

Here is what Pro Football Focus said about JJ McCarthy in their recent “players to watch” column:

“McCarthy seized the starting job from Cade McNamara in the second game of the season and didn’t look back, quarterbacking Michigan to its second straight Big Ten title and playoff berth. He thrives outside of the original play design. McCarthy’s five passing touchdowns outside of structure were tied with Drake Maye and trailed only Caleb Williams and Bryce Young among Power Five quarterbacks. He needs to improve his consistency, as he had four games with sub-60 grades in 2022.”

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