Michigan’s pro day on Friday drew significant attention from NFL coaches and evaluators, offering a chance for the university to potentially set a record for the most prospects selected in a single NFL Draft.
Leading the pack was quarterback J.J. McCarthy, whose draft stock has been on the rise since he declared for the draft following Michigan’s national championship victory. Regarded as a top-10 pick in many projections, McCarthy aimed to showcase his ability to deliver precise deep passes and demonstrate proficiency in all aspects required of an NFL quarterback.
“I wanted to address the questions they had about certain throws and demonstrate my ability to make those plays,” McCarthy explained. “I feel confident in the performance I delivered today.”
While projections place McCarthy as the fourth quarterback to be drafted, behind USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, and LSU’s Jayden Daniels, his impressive college statistics and leadership qualities make him a compelling prospect. With a completion rate of 67.6% and over 6,000 passing yards in three seasons at Michigan, McCarthy’s 27-1 record as a starter also stands out as a notable asset during interviews with NFL teams.
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“For me, it’s not just about statistics; it’s about character and leadership,” McCarthy emphasized. “I pride myself on being a leader and possessing intangible qualities that contribute to team success.”
Despite the buzz surrounding his draft prospects, McCarthy remains grounded and focused on his holistic approach to the game, which includes pregame meditation and maintaining a positive mindset. Training alongside fellow draft prospects in California, McCarthy maintains a unique perspective, symbolized by his signature smiley face on his workout shirt.
“Amidst the pressures of the draft process, I remind myself that football is just a game,” McCarthy reflected. “Maintaining perspective helps alleviate the stress and allows me to perform at my best.”
Michigan’s pro day served as a reunion for members of the national championship team, fostering a sense of camaraderie and celebration among teammates and coaches. With a record number of players invited to the NFL Combine, Michigan is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming draft, a testament to the talent and dedication of its athletes.
“I felt the energy and excitement among our team,” McCarthy remarked. “This was our moment to shine, and everyone gave their all to make it a memorable experience.”
