Jim Harbaugh, the well-regarded coach at the University of Michigan, has never been one to hold back praise where it’s due.
After observing J.J. McCarthy’s Pro Day performance, Harbaugh branded it as “the best I’ve ever seen.”
Jim Harbaugh waxing poetic on J.J. McCarthy and his Pro Day. “Literally, it was the best I’ve ever seen.” A certain reporter listened with pride (I’m the reporter). pic.twitter.com/mSQTMvKJYw
— Tracy Sandler (@TracyFGSN) March 25, 2024
“Not only were his feet great, individual drills, but then he started throwing and every throw was right there. … That was the best throwing day I’ve ever seen,” he said. “Hearing coaches and GMs come up to me saying, ‘Great job with J.J.’ Like I predicted. Once they were around him—I was hearing stories about how he is on the board, on the field, the little things, the intangibles. It was absolutely no surprise whatsoever. There was raving.”
McCarthy, who stood out as Harbaugh’s ace player in the 2022 National Championship, is anticipated to be a top quarterback candidate in the upcoming NFL draft.
Jim Harbaugh doubled down on J.J. McCarthy: “I think he’s the best quarterback in the draft,” he said from AFC coaches breakfast. Says a ‘killer comes out’ when adversity hits. pic.twitter.com/Qqih514GcN
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 25, 2024
While many have high hopes for McCarthy, Harbaugh’s recent declaration amplifies expectations even more.
Harbaugh’s sterling endorsement of McCarthy, pairing with his stellar performance and achievements while at Michigan, places the quarterback in a very favorable position going into the draft.
Despite Harbaugh’s endorsement, the Los Angeles Chargers, for whom Harbaugh currently works, may not be looking to draft McCarthy.
With an efficient quarterback like Justin Herbert already in their ranks, the Chargers are more likely to address other areas of need.
This could be a selection of a wide receiver or an offensive lineman with their No. 5 pick in the draft.
New #Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh notes “there is talk of four QBs going in the first four picks.” That would mean No. 5 “is like the first pick of the draft.”
Clearly excited about the options at his draft slot. “We know we got a great player that’s gonna be there.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 25, 2024
While the Chargers may not be in the running for McCarthy, other NFL teams would certainly relish the chance to sign this talented quarterback.
The upcoming 2024 NFL draft is expected to be dominated by quarterbacks, with USC’s Caleb Williams, LSU’s Jayden Daniels and North Carolina’s Drake Maye being potent competitors.
Yet, McCarthy’s phenomenal Pro Day performance has pushed him at the fore of these discussions.
.@danorlovsky7 believes J.J. McCarthy's pro day will lock him in as a top-five pick 🏈 pic.twitter.com/fiILeKZePv
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) March 22, 2024
