New York Giants vice president Chris Mara revealed the team had doubts about J.J. McCarthy’s maturity before the draft, but has been impressed by his growth, according to the New York Post.
The Giants considered selecting McCarthy in the 2024 NFL Draft, ultimately acquiring him in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings.
The New York organization seriously contemplated selecting the Michigan product with the sixth overall pick in this year’s draft, Mara told the New York Post in an interview published Saturday. The team was impressed by McCarthy’s physical tools but had concerns about his level of maturity at the time.
“We had him very well evaluated for his skills,” Mara said. “We had doubts about his maturity level, but we loved his qualities. He showed he could win and he could lead.”
The Giants ultimately chose wide receiver Malik Nabers with that sixth selection. Less than three years later, they secured McCarthy by sending a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Vikings in a trade completed on September 28, according to ESPN.
After being selected tenth overall by the Vikings, McCarthy missed his entire rookie season due to a knee injury. His performance the following year was inconsistent, as he completed 57.6% of his passes for 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
McCarthy lost the starting job to Kyler Murray during training camp and fell to third string on the depth chart after an ankle injury prevented him from playing in the final preseason game, ESPN reported. The Giants signed him after acquiring him from the Vikings in a trade on September 28.
Since joining the Giants, McCarthy has played better and improved his off-field conduct. Mara observed a distinct change in the 23-year-old quarterback.
“Seeing him three years later, he seems like a completely different person,” Mara said.
McCarthy led the Giants to a surprising overtime victory against the Houston Texans two weeks ago. Mara highlighted the quarterback’s physical attributes and presence during practice.
“I’m impressed watching him in practice,” Mara said. “He has a much better arm than I imagined. He moves very well. And he still has room to grow.”
The executive reiterated that McCarthy’s maturity, a concern during his time with the Vikings, has been evident since his arrival in New York. Mara described the quarterback’s personal growth as significant.
“He looks different on and off the field,” Mara said. “He’s a great guy. He’s matured. He’s married now and has a kid.”
McCarthy will make his second start with the Giants this Sunday when they face the Philadelphia Eagles, their division rivals, in Philadelphia. His performance will be closely watched as the Giants evaluate his long-term potential with the team.
