On March 2, ESPN’s Adam Schefter stated that one of the top teams still interested in trading quarterback Justin
Fields of the Chicago Bears is the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, other analysts have persisted in linking the Steelers
to quarterback picks in the NFL Draft of 2024. J.J. McCarthy, a signal caller from Michigan, had a good week at the
NFL scouting combine.
The Steelers were ranked by Jordan Dajani of CBS Sports as one of McCarthy’s top five suitors on March 2.
In light of Arthur Smith’s appointment as offensive coordinator, I believe McCarthy would work well in Pittsburgh.
While some saw Smith as an offensive coordinator who was unable to maximize the potential of his best players
while in Atlanta, Dajani stated, “What we do know about Smith is that he can build a legitimate rushing attack.” The
running game of the Atlanta Falcons finished third in 2022 and eighth the previous season. In 2020 and 2019, the
Tennessee Titans’ running assault led the league in both rankings while Smith was their offensive coordinator.
McCarthy benefited from a strong rush attack and defense, which Pittsburgh will undoubtedly have in Jaylen Warren
and Najee Harris. It would also be enjoyable to pass the ball to dynamic players like Pat Freiermuth, Diontae
Johnson, and George Pickens.
McCarthy “turned heads” during the NFL combine, according to Ryan Zuke of MLive.com, because of a few
measurables. He was taller and heavier than anticipated. McCarthy also did well in the 20-yard shuttle and the 3-
cone drill
There is no better way for the Michigan quarterback to kick off combine week. However, on March 2, he struggled in
the throwing drills.
ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller described McCarthy’s performance in the drills as “uneven” during his appearance on
SportsCenter.
Miller added, via Zuke, “You saw the throw to the right there looked beautiful.” During the workout, his left-handed
throwing was much more erratic. He became more at ease, calmed down, and discovered his groove. These wide
receivers are new targets for them; they have never played with them before.
