The Atlanta Falcons are facing a challenging situation at the quarterback position, with Desmond Ridder, who started the season as the quarterback, failing to instill confidence as the long-term franchise option. Some suggest that the team should explore veteran options in NFL free agency, with Kirk Cousins being mentioned as a potential target. However, others advocate for looking to the 2024 NFL Draft to secure a franchise quarterback.
Pro Football Focus has identified Michigan standout quarterback JJ McCarthy as a potential draft option for the Falcons in the 2024 NFL Draft. McCarthy’s impressive tools and performance have elevated his draft stock, leading the Wolverines to the College Football Playoff and the No. 1 overall ranking.
McCarthy’s stats for the season include a 74.2 percent completion rate on pass attempts, 2,630 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and only four interceptions. Additionally, he has contributed 146 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. While McCarthy faces competition from other quarterbacks ranked higher in the draft, his athleticism and success in crucial situations make him an intriguing prospect.
The evaluation of McCarthy is complicated by the limited volume of plays where he’s asked to throw, but his grades of 92.0 or better when throwing to intermediate and deep parts of the field showcase his potential. The suggestion is that Falcons head coach Arthur Smith could leverage McCarthy’s athleticism in the run game while developing his passing skills.
The Falcons, disappointed with Ridder’s performance, are expected to be aggressive in exploring quarterback options during the offseason, whether through free agency, the draft, or trades. The decision to move on from Ridder and seek a more reliable long-term solution will be a key focus for the team in the coming months.
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