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Former Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh is open when it comes to showing support and appreciation for his star QB JJ McCarthy. He dubs him the “greatest quarterback in the University of Michigan history.” Even after leaving college football to become the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, his early prediction for his former QB is that he’ll be the “No. 1 quarterback off the board” in the 2024 NFL Draft.

So, the question is, why wasn’t he the poster boy for his Enthusiasm Unknown to Mankind mural? While it seems like no other player can surpass his admiration for McCarthy, Jim Harbaugh shocked many when he chose his defensive tackle over his QB. See his reason for doing so. 

Jim Harbaugh chose Kris Jenkins as the EUTM poster person for his positivity

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When it comes to a positive attitude, none can beat Kris Jenkins, a star defensive player in Harbaugh’s previous roster who wore the No. 94 jersey. On his recent YouTube appearance on the Los Angeles Chargers channel, Jim Harbaugh said, “I considered everybody. I considered all the players, all the staff members, even considered myself. Kris Jenkins was my Enthusiasm Unknown to Mankind poster person because he is positive everyday, hardworking attitude.”

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Jenkins stole his former head coach’s signature quote “Attack the day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind” by appearing on the 15-foot-tall floor-to-ceiling mural in the stairwell near Michigan’s indoor practice facility. Aside from being a beast on the field, the 6’3 star always had a smile on and a goofy and positive personality that was infectious to his teammates in the locker room. JJ McCarthy said of him, “He’s got a spirit inside of him that can’t be kept in.” And although McCarthy wasn’t able to appear on the giant mural, he still has his former coach’s undying support. 

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Jim Harbaugh’s endless support for JJ McCarthy

Jim Harbaugh’s claims on JJ McCarthy being the greatest quarterback in the University of Michigan” became even more credible after Michigan’s 27-20 overtime victory in the Rose Bowl over Alabama. JJ McCarthy completed 17 of 27 passes for 221 yards and three TDs on top of 25 yards on three carries. After the win, he said, “I think the last QB to win in overtime against Alabama was none other than Tom Brady. I’ve said it before, but right here, this is the greatest quarterback in the University of Michigan—college football history.” 

READ MORE: Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Fit in Jim Harbaugh’s Offense Amidst $25 Million Salary Cap Concerns

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Even after leaving for the NFL, Harbaugh still sings high praises on JJ McCarthy. In his recent appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, he said of his former QB, “Arm talent, athleticism, ‘it’ factor, winning with numbing repetition. Don’t be surprised when he – if/when he goes to – he’s the No. 1 quarterback off the boardThat’s an early prediction for the 2024 NFL Draft.” That’s how much Jim Harbaugh puts his faith in JJ McCarthy.

READ MORE: Report: J.J. McCarthy and Xavier Worthy Come Out as the Biggest Winners in the 2024 NFL Combine