To access the content, please log in or subscribe now. This article is brought to you by Triangle Now, a part of the McClatchy Media Network. Our coverage includes local news, business, politics, sports, living, jobs/recruiting, betting, obituaries, and shopping. In football news, the New England Patriots are making headlines with their latest draft pick. CBS Sports has released a new mock draft that predicts the Patriots will trade their No. 3 pick to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for the No. 8 selection. The Patriots are expected to select J.J. McCarthy, a quarterback from Michigan who was an efficient conductor for the team’s run-first offense. McCarthy has thrown 44 touchdowns and only nine interceptions in the last two seasons and has the athleticism and velocity to make tight window throws
McCarthy’s impressive record of 27-1 as a starter and his 44 career touchdowns to only nine interceptions make him a desirable choice for any football fan. However, there is more to the game than just statistics. Despite leading his team to an undefeated national championship season, there are concerns about how well he will perform at the NFL level. Although he possesses the necessary traits of an NFL quarterback, such as arm strength and the ability to throw on the run, he was not consistently required to showcase these skills while playing for Michigan. Under the guidance of coach Jim Harbaugh, McCarthy played in an offense that focused on dominating opponents with a strong running game. Therefore, the 21-year-old prospect is one to keep an eye on during the NFL Scouting Combine. While three of his fellow quarterback prospects will not be participating in on-field drills, McCarthy will have the opportunity to display his arm strength in front of league scouts.
