ESPN expert explains NFL Draft stock rise of J.J. McCarthy

ESPN NFL Draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. explained on the latest edition of the "Eye on Foxborough" podcast how Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy went from an unnamed player as it pertains to the first 10 picks of the 2024 NFL Draft to somebody who could be a top-five selection on the night of April 25. 

"There was never really that game because he had the running backs, he had the offensive line, he had the defense, he had every piece around him that was able to allow Michigan to win the national title," Kiper said about McCarthy, per Chris Mason of MassLive. "But when he needed to make plays in that national title game, he did." 

Specifically, McCarthy completed 10-of-18 passes for 140 yards in the 34-13 win over the Washington Huskies on Jan. 8. He also rushed for 31 yards in that contest. 

As recently as this week, NFC East reporter Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports explained that several scouts view McCarthy as a "game manager" who doesn't do anything "great." Kiper didn't completely agree with such takes. 

"He’s 219 pounds," Kiper said about McCarthy. "He’s athletic. Even though he doesn’t have the big-time arm, he can make all the throws. He can beat you with his legs as he showed against Washington in the national title game... he’s a great leader. He’s tough. He’s got Josh Allen (of the Buffalo Bills) type competitiveness. He’s really smart. (Former Michigan head coach) Jim Harbaugh has been raving about him, saying he’s the best player in the draft, he’s the best quarterback. That doesn’t hurt."

Most analysts believe USC Trojans star Caleb Williams, LSU Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels and North Carolina Tar Heels signal-caller Drake Maye will be the draft's first three picks. 

It's been suggested that the New York Giants want to select McCarthy at overall selection No. 6, but some think the Minnesota Vikings could complete a blockbuster trade to move ahead of the Giants in the draft order with McCarthy in mind. 

"But overall, there’s a lot to like about J.J.," Kiper added about the national champion. "It’s just you never saw him go out and take it over and say, 'I’m the guy. I scream first pick, second pick in the draft.' He never really had that game." 

"That game" missing from McCarthy's resume may not matter considering there was a point earlier this month when some wondered if he could be the draft's third overall choice ahead of either Daniels or Maye.