Daniel Jones, a 2019 first-round draft pick for the New York Giants, had his fifth NFL season cut short by an injury, only appearing in six games. Despite signing a four-year contract extension in 2023, the injury and his overall disappointing performances in past seasons have raised questions about his future with the team. The upcoming NFL Draft has sparked discussions about top quarterback prospects, with former USC star Caleb Williams expected to go first. However, Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s stock is also on the rise, following his success in guiding his team to the College Football Playoff National Championship in January.
The Giants finished the season with a 6-11 record and hold the sixth overall draft pick, leading to speculation that they may choose a quarterback in the upcoming draft. McCarthy, who has been projected as a top quarterback prospect, could be available at No. 6. However, Giants legend Tiki Barber has expressed his reservations about McCarthy, stating that he does not want to see him playing for the team. Barber believes that McCarthy’s skills may not translate well to the NFL level, and attributes much of the positive attention he has received to his former coach, Jim Harbaugh.
Despite being projected as a fourth-best quarterback prospect, McCarthy has shown promise with his ability to make accurate throws, ending the 2023 season with a career-high 2,991 passing yards. While initially receiving lower draft grades, McCarthy’s stock has risen, and he could potentially be selected in the top-10. Other quarterbacks expected to be drafted include North Carolina’s Drake Maye and LSU’s Jayden Daniels, with Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. also receiving consideration. The Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, and New York Giants are among the teams that could be looking for a quarterback like McCarthy to potentially succeed their current players.
The NFL Draft is set to begin on April 24, with much anticipation surrounding the top quarterback prospects like Williams and McCarthy. Despite differing opinions on McCarthy’s potential in the NFL, his success at Michigan and his ability to make accurate throws have garnered attention and could lead to him being selected early in the draft. With teams like the Giants potentially in the market for a new quarterback, the draft will offer opportunities for teams to secure talented players like McCarthy to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season.
