4) Where will JJ McCarthy land? The buzz surrounding McCarthy has propelled one of the biggest and most compelling storylines of the pre-draft cycle, with the Michigan quarterback developing to be named as the top passer, or close to it, in the entire class. .
Jeremiah believes the hype is real, at least in terms of team interest, as that interest has increased significantly since the NFL Scouting Combine and Michigan’s pro day. After all, Jeremiah doesn’t think McCarthy will last long next Thursday.
“I would be shocked if you told me J.J. McCarthy was more than the 12th pick,” he said.
The Denver Broncos will pick No. 12. One spot higher at No. 11 overall is the Minnesota Vikings. Those are the two teams Jeremiah mentioned when asked who he most associates with McCarthy.
The Vikings own two first-round picks (including No. 23 overall) and nine total picks, giving them a good position to advance. Denver has eight picks, six of which are at No. 120 or higher. The Broncos don’t even have a second-round pitcher this year.
Depending on how aggressive the team in need of a QB gets, McCarthy could be in the top five overall, giving the Vikings a better chance of acquiring him with a stronger supply of ammunition. Probability is high.
“Everything is on the table,” Jeremiah said. “Whether it’s a trade up to No. 4 or No. 5, whether it’s a trade just a few spots, or whether those teams hold out, I think all those options are valid.”
Jeremiah also believes that of the teams rumored to be the most likely to get into the quarterback business this draft, the Vikings offer a rookie quarterback the best chance to succeed early on.
“If you gave the quarterbacks and the top players’ agents a confession pill, everyone would say they want to go to the Minnesota Vikings,” Jeremiah said. “That would be the first choice.
“Of all these teams, the quarterback team…that’s by far the best landing spot for a quarterback. Everything from what we talk to the three pointers, talk to the play-callers, talk to the players. is ready to protect, playmaker, check, check, check. ”
Jeremiah believes Sam Darnold’s presence will also help the Vikings, as it means they won’t have to rush a rookie QB into the lineup. In his mind, it’s a spot set up to help whichever QB ends up successful in Minnesota.
“I can’t think of a better situation for a young quarterback than the Minnesota Vikings situation,” he said.
In contrast, Jeremiah said the Broncos’ situation is “functional” and “sustainable” for a rookie QB, just not as attractive as what the Vikings can offer right now.
“Look, it’s not the Vikings, but look, I think it’s set up to work,” Jeremiah said. “Sean (Payton) and (Joe) Lombardi have been together forever, so I think you’re going to see an offensive mind and a play-caller there.”
“I said, ‘I think it’s set up to be sustainable. You’re not going to ruin the quarterback by throwing him out there with that group now.’
