J.J. McCarthy Is Not A Top-15 Dynasty Quarterback…Right?

Chew determines whether or not J.J. McCarthy is a top-15 quarterback in dynasty.

A knee injury in the pre-season derailed what would have been J.J. McCarthy’s rookie season in 2024. The former Michigan Wolverine knows what it means to play for a championship team, but what does that mean for his prospects as a quarterback in dynasty fantasy football?

Let’s take a look at the pro’s and con’s for McCarthy in dynasty. And let me know in the comments where you stand and why!

THE PRO’S

McCarthy worked within the system throughout his Michigan career to accurately deliver passes (67.6%) and minimize turnovers (11 interceptions in 713 attempts). This could translate well to a Vikings team that is led by the quarterback whisperer, Kevin O’Connell, who revived the career of Sam Darnold last season.

Another boon for McCarthy is playing with one of the best wide receiver duos in the NFL, Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Not to mention Jalen Nailor fresh off a strong season and T.J. Hockenson heading into his first full season playing since his late 2023 knee injury.

So much of a rookie’s success is connected to their environment and supporting cast and it’s hard to argue that the Vikings is a bad situation for McCarthy. But past his current situation, what sets McCarthy apart as a top-15 dynasty quarterback?

THE CON’S

During McCarthy’s final collegiate season, Michigan ran the ball 60% of the time and he was asked to throw the ball approximately 22 times per game. We are left with a smaller sample size compared to McCarthy’s 2024 first round counterparts: Michael Penix (37), Drake Maye (35), Bo Nix (34), Caleb Williams (32), Jayden Daniels (27).

Another key piece of fantasy production is pushing the ball downfield and layering in passes outside the hashmarks. While arm strength was not a ding on McCarthy’s scouting report, the inability to consistently apply the required touch to deep passes could mean opportunities for opposing defensive backs.

Another key piece of a quarterback’s fantasy value is rushing upside. McCarthy put up a solid 4.57 40-yard dash, but rushing is not expected to be a big contributor to his fantasy success. As a runner McCarthy is more mobile than he is dynamic.

CONCLUSION

McCarthy is in a good spot to develop into the best quarterback that he can. However, the smaller collegiate sample size and lack of overwhelming measurables has left everyone to pick a side. As we enter the 2025 NFL season, J.J. McCarthy is not a top-15 dynasty quarterback in my opinion.

So you made it this long and hopefully you enjoyed it (that’s what she said). If you wouldn’t mind sharing this in your group message with your fellow dynasty degenerates I would greatly appreciate it!