MIN • QB • #9
A meteoric draft season “riser,” former five-star recruit and 2023 national champion McCarthy (6’3/219) was infamously treated like a game manager by the Wolverines. When he got the opportunity to actually showcase his skills, however, he played efficient, mistake-free football. That includes under pressure, where McCarthy was both extremely accurate as well as aggressive, rocking Pro Football Focus’ “big time throw rate” metric. Although his passing motion contains a slight hitch, McCarthy throws a clean, straight ball. He does not loft his passes, but rather cuts them through the air. That being said, he will never be accused of having elite arm strength. It is simply adequate. That is the case for most of McCarthy’s game, but the Vikings are obviously hoping he will be the ultimate “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” quarterback prospect. That includes as an athlete, where McCarthy tested well but was never a true dual-threat at Michigan. The floor is high. The ceiling is totally unknown. McCarthy has an elite pass-catching group in Minnesota, highlighted by the dominant Justin Jefferson, speedster Jordan Addison, and the ever-reliable T.J. Hockenson. In a pass-first Vikings offense, McCarthy could have immediate fantasy relevance if he takes the Week 1 starting job from veteran Sam Darnold.
about 1 year ago
April 26, 2024 1:22 AM
