Former Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy making unlikely connection as he impresses at Minnesota Vikings camp

Ever since J.J. McCarthy was drafted many have debated whether or not he should start right away. Sam Darnold was signed to the Minnesota Vikings this spring as a potential bridge quarterback. And according to a good number of draft "experts" McCarthy was viewed throughout the process as a quarterback prospect that may take some time to develop before he was fully ready to start.

However, it seems McCarthy is getting up to speed rather quickly in camp already. One of the players he's connecting with so far pretty well--especially on a highlight play that went viral over the weekend--is Jalen Nailor. And for Michigan fans that unlikely connection has got to seem a bit odd since Nailor of course played for the "little brother" program Michigan State.

But just check out the ball placement from McCarthy on the highlight touchdown below to Nailor!

While McCarthy has looked good, making highlight throws to some of his former Big Ten conference rival(s), Sam Darnold has reportedly been looking rather inconsistent. If this continues, it's going to be hard to keep J.J. McCarthy off the field for long for the Minnesota Vikings this fall.

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McCarthy's immediate success in proving himself at camp shouldn't surprise any Michigan or college football fans who watched him throw 44 touchdowns to 9 interceptions and win 28 of 29 games in the last two years for the Wolverines. McCarthy posted multiple seasons with 90th percentile scheme adjusted pass efficiency, and despite largely being a low volume passer finished Top 10 in the nation in most key rate stats last fall among college quarterbacks.

There may be some ups and downs for McCarthy as he continues syncing up with his new wide receivers in camp, but unless trajectory changes it looks like he may take over the starting quarterback spot far earlier than many originally expected.

Related: Three potential Michigan Wolverines breakout players for the 2024 college football season

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And if you want to check out some of the highlight plays that landed J.J. McCarthy in the first round this spring just check out the video below!