Former New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, now a sports talk radio show host for WFAN, expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of the Giants selecting Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy in the upcoming draft. Barber, the Giants’ rushing yards record holder, cited concerns about McCarthy’s film, which he believes does not justify the first-round hype surrounding him.
Barber emphasized that McCarthy’s film does not reflect the qualities expected of a first-round quarterback, citing limitations in his ability to execute second and third-level reads and multiple combo routes. He attributed McCarthy’s success at Michigan to the run-based scheme orchestrated by former Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh, suggesting that the quarterback’s inflated draft stock is a result of Harbaugh’s endorsements rather than genuine performance.
Tiki doesn't want the Giants to take J.J. McCarthy: pic.twitter.com/HYUGyxhdLd
— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) April 11, 2024
In contrast, Giants general manager Joe Schoen has remained guarded about the team’s draft plans, maintaining confidence in incumbent quarterback Daniel Jones. Schoen highlighted Jones’s past success and expressed optimism about his potential to lead the team to victories.
However, with a deep pool of quarterback talent available in the draft and considering Jones’s injury history, many anticipate the Giants to select a quarterback. Barber, while critical of McCarthy, indicated support for other quarterback prospects if chosen by the Giants.