J.J. McCarthy QB Michigan: Scouting Report

Height: 6’3

Weight: 202

Overall

J.J. McCarthy is a dynamic quarterback in Michigan’s run-heavy offense. In his 3 seasons with the Wolverines, he played in 40 games with 28 starts. He did not have elite passing production due to the run-heavy system he was in but when it mattered most he made big plays in big moments, both with his arm and his legs. He is a gamer and consistently makes plays on film which resulted in a National Championship victory this past season.

Pass Game

In the pass game, McCarthy has excellent footwork to move around the pocket while keeping his shoulders square up the field. He has a slightly elongated throwing motion when throwing deep and intermediate routes but he gets the ball out quickly on swing passes and screens. When he plays in a rhythm, he is decisive in his decision making and accurate down the field. He has good vision in reading the defense and consistently goes through his reads. He is not afraid to make throws with pressure bearing down on him. At times he will try to force the ball into tight coverage and throw across his body when on the run but he still made some phenomenal throws when should have just thrown it away. He has good speed to scramble and the elusiveness to dodge defenders but his “want” to make plays out of nothing results in sacks on film. When he does avoid pressure he is very accurate on the run and has the strength to fit the ball in tight windows on the sideline. 

Run Game

McCarthy was used often on designed runs during his college career. He has good speed and acceleration to get up the field in a hurry and the vision to find open running lanes and gain valuable yards. He does a good job of getting out of bounds before he can get it but when he is in the middle of the field he shows sufficient elusiveness to avoid tackles in open space. His ability to make plays with his legs will make him a dynamic threat in his career but his thin frame may result in injury if he does not better protect himself when on the move.

Last Word

McCarthy projects best in a run-heavy or balanced offense where he can use his legs on zone reads and throw it down the field off of play-action. He can make every throw on the field and he has the arm strength and accuracy to fit the ball into tight windows down the field. He is a perfect “win with” quarterback who can consistently lead an offense, but he also has the playmaking ability to occasionally make magic happen when a play breaks down. His toughness and ability to make plays under pressure will allow him to excel on 3rd downs.

One-Liner: J.J. McCarthy was not required to do a lot this past season in Michigan’s offense, but he has the arm talent, toughness, and playmaking ability to consistently lead an offense at the next level.

Grade: 6.6 (Lower End Starting Quarterback)

Games Watched: 2023 - Penn State, Rutgers, Indiana, Nebraska, Ohio State

Team Fits: Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints