JUST IN: NFC East Team Emerge As Favorites To Sign Michigan QB as he confirms Departure

This NFC East squad, the Washington Commanders, are top contenders to recruit Michigan quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, in the upcoming draft.

The Washington Commanders of the NFC East are now seen as frontrunners to draft Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy in this year’s NFL Draft. Reports indicate that some NFL executives believe that Commanders General Manager Adam Peters is leaning towards selecting McCarthy with the No. 2 overall pick. With Caleb Williams presumably going to the Bears with the top pick, the Commanders’ choice at No. 2 could catch many by surprise. Speculation surrounds potential picks like Jayden Daniels or Drake Maye for Washington.

Mike Garofolo suggests that some other teams believe Washington is focusing on Daniels. However, the actual selection remains unknown until the Commanders officially make their pick. McCarthy, fresh off a national championship victory with Michigan under coach Jim Harbaugh, has drawn interest from several teams, including the Commanders, Seahawks, and Patriots, as reported by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer.

Washington is looking towards a new chapter in the 2024 season under Peters and new head coach Dan Quinn. After a 4-13 record last season and trading Sam Howell to the Seahawks, it seems the Commanders are targeting a quarterback in this year’s draft. Marcus Mariota was recently signed by Washington as a free agency addition, providing insurance at the quarterback position. His fit with the team could be a factor in Washington’s growing favoritism to draft McCarthy.

In the previous season, McCarthy recorded 2,991 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and just four interceptions as he guided the Wolverines to a national championship. While his statistics may not match those of some other quarterback prospects, McCarthy is demonstrating qualities that appeal to Washington.