The debate about J.J. McCarthy’s next possible destination seems to be a hot topic for discussion in the NFL. With the Michigan Wolverines quarterback being the center of attention in the upcoming NFL Draft, with only 15 days until the big day, the next question that arises is whether he is at all worthy of being among the top picks.

To elaborate on this point, NFL analyst Mel Kiper Jr. joins in a podcast. Now that programs are mindlessly running after getting the quarterback, the analyst exposes the real deal.   

Kiper Jr. is not convinced about McCarthy being a top pick

In his latest mock draft, Kiper Jr. has some big surprises for McCarthy. According to the NFL analyst’s predictions, the Minnesota Vikings will be trading with the Los Angeles Chargers to take McCarthy at No. 5 overall. As pointed out by Kiper Jr. “I don’t think the Vikings can afford to wait until No. 11 if they want one of the top four quarterbacks. They’re going to have to trade up.” The Vikings are looking for their long-term Kirk Cousins replacement. Kiper Jr. however, is not convinced about McCarthy being the top pick. Establishing his point further, the analyst claimed, “On the first TRP podcast I have him at 14 I did that to close the gap between McCarthy and Drake maybe he was around 21 14’s not high enough to go up and get him at five that’s my opinion.”

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On Kiper Jr.’s big board, McCarthy is at No. 14; however, he also highlights why programs might take him in the top 5. The quarterback is in charge of intriguing physical traits and has been a precision passer in 2023 and in Minnesota he will thrive as a rookie. Meanwhile, the Vikings’ move will fulfill Jim Harbaugh’s big plan surrounding McCarthy.

Harbaugh’s secret plan behind McCarthy

Even though there prevail doubts about McCarthy’s worthiness among the top picks, Harbaugh is playing mind games as far as the quarterback is concerned. According to the speculations, the Chargers’ interest in McCarthy has been replaced by Marvin Harrison Jr. The player is one of the first non-quarterbacks to be selected in the upcoming NFL Draft. Given the current situation in Harbaugh’s Los Angeles, two wide receiver positions have been left void after the departure of Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Hence, McCarthy fails to allure his former Wolverine’s coach.

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Instead, Harbaugh adhered to interesting tactics, through which he endorsed McCarthy to other teams to draft the quarterback. Hence, they will gladly take up the offer from the Vikings and give their 5th pick to Minnesota in exchange for 11th and 23rd picks.

Meanwhile, Kiper Jr. is not convinced that McCarthy is going for No. 2, which nullifies Washington Commanders decision to select him. Hence, in every scenario, Vikings and McCarthy seem to be the ultimate option. However, we can do nothing but wait till April 25 for the final verdict.  

Also Read: “There’s a Plan There”: NFL Executives Allegedly Accuse Jim Harbaugh of Playing Mind Games to Boost J.J. McCarthy’s Draft Stock