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“Learn Behind Tom Brady”: J.J. McCarthy Advised to Sit Out Rookie Year in Hopes to Absorb Wisdom From NFL GOAT

Published 04/17/2024, 4:51 AM EDT

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Tom Brady’s legacy continues to dominate conversations, even with the 2024 NFL Draft in full swing. Despite retiring almost 2 years ago, the GOAT hinted at a potential return, expressing interest in playing for whoever rings his phone. While the odds of a comeback seem slim, some experts see his potential comeback as a unique opportunity for young quarterbacks like J.J. McCarthy.

Some suggest that the Michigan star could benefit immensely from sitting out his rookie year and learning directly from Brady. While Brady returning to the gridiron is unlikely, this idea sparks a discussion about how young quarterbacks could benefit from their seniors.

McCarthy should learn from Tom Brady

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On the Stink and Truth Podcast, Mark Schlereth and Mike Evans were sharing their thoughts on the 2024 NFL Draft quarterback prospects. Evan started to pour his suggestion saying, “New England got the number three pick. Let’s say they take Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy and the feeling is that they would benefit from a year seasoning.” He pointed out that fans often demand to see new players in action immediately, rather than letting them learn from veterans. “But what if Tom Brady comes back?” Evans continued. “Then it’s much easier to say, ‘Let the young guy sit for a year and learn from the greatest of all time.'”

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Schlereth and Evans discussed how star quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Jordan Love benefited from watching and learning from experienced QBs like Alex Smith and Aaron Rodgers before stepping into starting roles.  Schlereth also emphasized, “No question the benefit that would be, and then you’re learning it from the greatest quarterback of all time.” This new advice from the experts comes amidst the ongoing comparison of McCarthy with Brady.

J.J. McCarthy’s comparisons with Tom Brady

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After Michigan’s stunning Rose Bowl victory over Alabama, quarterback J.J. McCarthy earned immense praise. Former coach Jim Harbaugh went so far as to call McCarthy “the greatest quarterback in the University of Michigan.” This bold statement raised eyebrows, considering Michigan is also Tom Brady’s alma mater.  Thus comparisons between McCarthy and the legendary Brady began to swirl. Teammate Blake Corum added more fuel to it, saying, “I think he’ll have a super-long career. Maybe a Tom Brady, we’ll see.”

While the hype is exciting, McCarthy has a long way to go before reaching GOAT status. Even Brady initially spent time as a backup under Bill Belichick on the Patriots. It wasn’t until an injury to Drew Bledsoe that Brady seized his opportunity. What do you think – Should McCarthy attempt a similar learning curve and red-shirt his first year as a pro? Let us know your thoughts on this in the comments below. 

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Written by:

M.R. Jenifer

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Jenifer Martin is a college football writer for EssentiallySports. Recently, her coverage has focused on the latest developments in college football, including the transfer portal phenomenon and its impact on team dynamics. Before joining ES, she was a part of Pinkvilla as a fitness and sportainment writer.
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Edited by:

Harshita