BILL BELICHICK DOESN'T HOLD BACK THOUGHTS ABOUT QUARTERBACK J.J. MCCARTHY

Bill Belichick isn't a head coach - for now, at least - but he still knows how to evaluate talent. 

The longtime Patriots coach took in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft on Thursday night, and he gave his thoughts on new Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

McCarthy, the former Michigan Wolverine who led the team to an undefeated season and a national title last year, was one of six quarterbacks taken in the first round this year.

That sets a new NFL Draft record, and Belichick was complementary toward the former Wolverine after he was the fifth quarterback to be taken.

"He makes good decisions," Belichick said about McCarthy. "He’s a good runner and he’s tough. There’s not much to not like about JJ.”

McCarthy didn't have the greatest individual college career from a statistical standpoint, but he won everything a quarterback can win for his team. 

McCarthy rose on draft boards after an impressive sowing, with some believing he could be one the first quarterbacks taken in a class that has depth at the position.

He'll now be heading into a situation that seems set up for a rookie quarterback to succeed. Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and TJ Hockenson make up one of the best units of pass catchers in the country.

McCarthy may not start right away, but there's reason to assume he'll have an opportunity to battle for the starting position.

If a legendary head coach like Bill Belichick sees positive qualities in his game, they're things to focus on throughout his career.

We'll see what McCarthy can do in Minnesota. With Kirk Cousins now gone - and perhaps dealing with a quarterback controversy of his own - he'll have the keys to the franchise and the backing of the front office after being selected in the top ten.

2024-04-26T16:49:39Z dg43tfdfdgfd