The Michigan Wolverines will need a new starting quarterback next season, as junior J.J. McCarthy has officially declared for the NFL Draft.
McCarthy confirmed Sunday’s news in a social media post: “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. 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.”
McCarthy, who led Michigan to a 34-123 National Championship win over Washington with a 10-of-18 for 140 yards performance, is heralded by many as the greatest quarterback in program history.
In three seasons with the Wolverines, McCarthy went above and beyond. He completed the third most passes in school history with 482, is fifth all-time among Wolverines with 6,226 passing yards, and his 49 career passing touchdowns are tied for fourth most in Michigan history with Denard Robinson behind just Chad Henne (87), John Navarre (70) and Elvis Grbac (64).
In his final season in Ann Arbor, McCarthy completed 240-of-332 passes for 2,991 yards with 22 touchdowns and four interceptions.