According to Keyshawn Johnson, among the hot topics is University of Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who has been climbing the ranks in draft boards across the nation. However, not everyone is sold on McCarthy’s potential to be a top pick, especially former NFL wide receiver and sports analyst Keyshawn Johnson.
In a recent episode of FS1’s “Undisputed,” Johnson expressed skepticism about the growing enthusiasm for McCarthy.
Despite the quarterback’s successful stint at Michigan, including winning a national championship, Johnson remains unconvinced that McCarthy deserves to be ranked among the top three quarterbacks in the upcoming draft.
Keyshawn Johnson Comparing Quarterback Credentials
The debate heats up as Johnson compares McCarthy to his peers, particularly USC’s Caleb Williams and LSU’s Jayden Daniels, who are also in the running for top spots. Williams, anticipated to be the number one pick by the Chicago Bears, and Daniels are seen by many, including Johnson, as superior choices over McCarthy.
Johnson argues that placing McCarthy at number three, potentially by teams like the New England Patriots, is a significant overestimation of his capabilities.
“Even if Williams and Daniels weren’t in this draft class, McCarthy shouldn’t be the top signal-caller selected,” Johnson stated, highlighting alternatives like North Carolina’s Drake Maye, who is considered by some as the second-best quarterback available this year.
J.J. McCarthy Statistical Standoff
When looking at the numbers, McCarthy’s performance, although notable, doesn’t quite stack up against his competitors. In 2023, he threw for 2,991 yards with 22 touchdowns and just four interceptions, completing 72.3% of his passes.
These statistics, while impressive, do not overshadow the achievements of quarterbacks like Williams, Daniels, and Maye. The comparison extends to others like Bo Nix and Michael Penix Jr., further diluting McCarthy’s standout status.
🚨 BREAKING 🚨
NFL scout on JJ McCarthy:
“Before he signed, he was telling other Michigan recruits that if they wanted to PARTY & CHASE GIRLS, GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. His class was going to be the one that restored Michigan. To have that mentality and then actually go achieve it?… pic.twitter.com/ghyuffPd3P
— TillDaddy (@TillDaddyYT) April 10, 2024
The New England Patriots Factor
Amidst the swirling rumors and speculations, there’s talk that the New England Patriots have taken a particular interest in McCarthy, considering him for their number three pick. This potential decision could lead to significant backlash, especially if either Daniels or Maye is still available at that time. Choosing McCarthy over these quarterbacks could be seen as a risky move, one that might not sit well with critics and fans alike.
A Draft Day Decision
As draft day approaches, all eyes will be on teams like the Patriots and on players like McCarthy, whose futures will soon be decided. Will Johnson’s criticisms hold weight, or will McCarthy prove his doubters wrong? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: The drama and debates surrounding the NFL Draft are as intense and exciting as the game of football itself.
Source: nflanalysis
