LeSean McCoy criticizes the Vikings for drafting JJ McCarthy and questions his abilities.
Minnesota picked Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy with the tenth overall choice in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Vikings acquired this pick by trading their 11th, 129th, and 157th overall picks to the Jets.
McCarthy is the fifth quarterback selected in this year’s draft, behind Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, and Michael Penix Jr.
This is the highest Minnesota has ever picked a quarterback, topping Daunte Culpepper at No. 11 in 1999.
McCarthy was voted the Big Ten Griese-Brees Quarterback of the Year following an outstanding 2023 season in which he led the Wolverines to a national title and accumulated 2,991 passing yards, 22 passing touchdowns and three running touchdowns.
McCarthy started 28 of his 40 collegiate games, totaling 6,226 yards, 49 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He also ran for 632 yards and ten touchdowns.
McCarthy set multiple records at Michigan, including the single-season completion %, career completion percentage, and lowest career interception percentage.
He is also recognized for his love of hockey, visiting penguins at the Detroit Zoo, philanthropic efforts, and campaigning for mental health through meditation.
However, LeSean McCoy believes the Vikings are the worst losers of the draft by selecting JJ McCarthy:
“What evidence do you have that JJ McCarthy can win games for you with his arm? Nothing about his recording suggests that we should include him.
The Minnesota Vikings took a big move in the 2024 NFL Draft by choosing former Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy with the tenth overall choice.
This is the highest draft pick the Vikings have ever used on a quarterback. Let’s look harder at McCarthy’s history and what he brings to the table.
McCarthy has a tremendous undergraduate career at Michigan, where he helped the team win the National Championship.
In his two seasons as a starter, he completed 68.5% of his throws for 5,710 yards, 44 touchdowns, and only nine interceptions. In addition, he ran for 508 yards and eight touchdowns.
The Vikings moved up with the New York Jets, moving from the 11th selection to
Along with the 10th pick, they received the 203rd pick from the Jets in exchange for additional draft picks.
Challenges Ahead: The main issue today is whether McCarthy will start as the Vikings’ quarterback during the 2024 regular season.
The club also signed veteran quarterback Sam Darnold in free agency, showing trust in him. If McCarthy isn’t ready, Darnold can go in and deliver solid football.
However, the Vikings are hopeful McCarthy can become their next franchise quarterback and guide them to historic success.
McCarthy lacks body thickness and a strong arm, but he has calmness in the pocket. His ball placement and timing require development, particularly given his windup release.