J.J. McCarthy Shines in NFL Debut: Former Michigan QB Shows Early Potential

It was a tough day for the “J.J. McCarthy can only hand the ball off” crowd on Saturday.

The former Michigan football quarterback made his NFL debut for the Minnesota Vikings in their first preseason game against the Raiders. As a former Michigan Football star, this game was a significant milestone in his young career.

Sam Darnold started for the Vikings but was pulled after one drive, completing 4/8 for 59 yards. While Darnold seems to be the clear starter, it may not be long before fans start calling for McCarthy to take his shot.

A Rocky Start for J.J. McCarthy

McCarthy entered the game on the Vikings’ second drive, but it wasn’t the smoothest beginning. On a crucial 3rd & 8, McCarthy was forced out of the pocket and, attempting to make a play, threw an interception to Raiders CB Jack Jones.

#Raiders CB Jack Jones with a beautiful interception on JJ McCarthypic.twitter.com/ZegvfU0dmm

— Sanjit T. (@Sanjit__T) August 10, 2024

It wasn’t the start McCarthy had envisioned for his NFL debut, but in a postgame interview, he remained positive: “After the interception, all the nerves went out the window and I just played free.”

McCarthy Bounces Back with 2 Touchdowns

After settling down, McCarthy looked more comfortable. Early in the third quarter, he delivered a perfect 45-yard touchdown pass to Trishton Jackson. For those who doubted McCarthy’s deep ball abilities, this play was a statement.👇

JJ McCarthy’s first career TD pass is a BOMB 💣

(🎥 @Vikings) pic.twitter.com/drOliSM6Zj

— PFF (@PFF) August 10, 2024

On the following drive, McCarthy connected with Trent Sherfield for a 33-yard touchdown, demonstrating his growing confidence. Vikings superstar WR Justin Jefferson was seen excitedly cheering McCarthy on from the sidelines.

A Promising Future Ahead for the Former Michigan QB

McCarthy’s NFL debut concluded with an 11 for 17 passing performance, totaling 188 yards, 2 TDs, and 1 INT. Although he has room to grow, his performance showed promise for a 21-year-old rookie.

Stay tuned as McCarthy develops and potentially becomes a key player as the starting quarterback for the Vikings this season.