J.J. McCarthy shares how he can simplify things at NFL level
It’s easy for an NFL rookie to become overwhelmed. They’re staring down massive men moving at ridiculous speeds with one goal in mind: crush the opponent. During the Minnesota Vikings’ rookie minicamp, first-round pick JJ McCarthy revealed how he plans to simplify the game in his first year at the next level.
“I would say my only trick is trying to stay in the present moment as much as possible and not letting my mind take me to all the places that people could imagine it would go,” McCarthy said. “Just really focus on the here and now; where your head is, where your butt is. Focus on that and simplicity is a byproduct of it.”
McCarthy certainly made the game look simple at the collegiate level. In the 2023 campaign at Michigan, McCarthy started all 15 games, tallying 2,991 passing yards with 22 touchdowns and four interceptions. The 6-foot-3 junior also compiled 202 yards and three scores on the ground.
Fueled by McCarthy’s excellent play behind center, Michigan reeled in its first national title since 1997. For his efforts, McCarthy was named the Griese-Brees Big Ten Quarterback of the Year and a Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award finalist.
JJ McCarthy receives rave reviews in early practices
The standout season was more than enough to entice the Vikings. The team ultimately traded up in the 2024 NFL Draft to select him with the No. 10 overall pick. McCarthy’s drive for greatness has already wowed Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell.
“He’s trying to have the best possible day that he can today and then try to do the same thing tomorrow,” O’Connell said. “This guy is a process-driven guy and understands that there’s a long road ahead of him.
“We’re just trying to make incremental gains that will be solidified as part of how he plays quarterback for a long time. So, I’ve been really impressed with him so far.”
McCarthy received endless praise for his leadership at Michigan, with former head coach Jim Harbaugh even calling him the greatest college quarterback of all time. Evidently, McCarthy’s self-belief is carrying over to the next level.
“It was simple because it didn’t feel like my first day,” McCarthy said after his first practice with the Vikings. “I’ve been going over the offense for a long time now, so being able to go out there and actually be able to perform and execute it, that’s new. But, it was nothing that was overwhelming or too much.”