5 prospects who could be the Vikings next franchise QB in 2024
By Chris Schad
3. J.J. McCarthy (Michigan)
Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 202 pounds
2023 Passing Stats: 1,799 yards, 18 TDs, 3 INTs, 78.1 completion percentage
2023 Rushing Stats: 33 carries, 168 yards, 3 TDs
J.J. McCarthy was a rising name that was connected to the Vikings by Pro Football Focus’s Trevor Sikkema when they started 0-3, and his name could resurface thanks to a tremendous junior season.
McCarthy has limited opportunities due to the run-first nature of Michigan’s offense, but his efficiency has jumped through the roof in 2023. After averaging 8.4 yards per attempt in 2022, McCarthy is averaging 10.6 yards per attempt this season with a passer rating that has jumped from 155.0 to 199.1.
With a dash of mobility, McCarthy has enough intangibles to be a franchise quarterback, but still comes with some doubt. Jim Harbaugh is currently being investigated by the NCAA for stealing signs, and it’s unclear how much that has to do with McCarthy’s performance.
But a strong end to the season and draft process could put those concerns to bed and make McCarthy a potential first-round pick if he decides to enter the draft next spring.