JJ McCarthy announces decision on NFL Draft

Dec 4, 2021; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Big Ten Conference championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

JJ McCarthy had an outstanding season to help lead Michigan to a national championship, but the quarterback is not going for a repeat next year.

McCarthy announced on Sunday that he is declaring for the NFL Draft. He issued a statement on social media thanking Jim Harbaugh and Michigan’s coaching staff, his teammates, family and fans.

“After three incredible years at the University of Michigan, I have decided to enter the 2024 NFL Draft. I have talked to many in and out of football, including my family, Coach Harbaugh, and many whose opinions I greatly admire and respect,” McCarthy wrote. “This decision was not easy and how could it be — I love my teammates, I love my coaches and I love it here in Ann Arbor.”

Forever a Michigan Man 💙🙏 pic.twitter.com/0i50FzLsoB

— J.J. McCarthy (@jjmccarthy09) January 14, 2024

McCarthy started for Michigan the past two seasons. The Wolverines reached the College Football Playoff both years. They lost to TCU in the semifinals last year but beat Alabama and Washington to capture a national title this year.

McCarthy completed an absurd 72.3% of his passes this season for 2,991 yards, 22 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions. He rushed for an additional 202 yards and 3 scores.

While he is not viewed as the best quarterback in the upcoming draft, McCarthy has a good chance to be a first-round pick. He excelled in a pro-style offense and displayed great leadership during a tough year at Michigan. Those will be factors for NFL teams when they evaluate him leading up to April.