An NFL scout has suggested that JJ McCarthy could reach the level of Joe Burrow if the University of Michigan employed a more pass-heavy offensive strategy.
Michigan quarterback JJ McCarthy presents a challenging evaluation for NFL scouts. Despite only losing one game during his two years as a starter with the Wolverines and leading the team to a national championship, questions linger about his NFL potential due to the team’s reliance on a strong defense and running game. However, scouts are optimistic about McCarthy’s abilities, with one drawing comparisons to Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, suggesting that McCarthy could flourish in a more pass-heavy offensive system.
ESPN’s Matt Miller shared insights from NFL scouts, highlighting McCarthy’s toughness, strong arm, athleticism, and coachability, which have garnered significant praise within the scouting community. Another NFL executive praised McCarthy for his mobility, toughness, winning mentality, and precision passing ability, indicating that he may be drafted higher than anticipated.
Despite Michigan’s tendency to build large leads and rely on their running game, McCarthy’s limited opportunities to showcase his passing skills have left some uncertainty about his NFL readiness. However, his potential upside has led to speculation that a team may draft him with the intention of developing him over time.
The outcome of McCarthy’s NFL Combine performance is expected to offer further insight into teams’ evaluations of the Michigan quarterback and where he may be drafted in the upcoming NFL draft.
