Where did JJ McCarthy go to college? The American football quarterback attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he played for the Michigan Wolverines from 2021 through 2023. His three-year college career included major individual achievements, consecutive Big Ten championships, an undefeated season, and a national championship victory that established him as one of the most successful quarterbacks in Michigan’s recent football history.
McCarthy’s development at Michigan attracted national attention. He entered the program as a promising young quarterback, competed for playing time during his freshman season, and eventually became the leader of a championship-winning team. His performances demonstrated his passing accuracy, mobility, and ability to manage important games.
His time in Ann Arbor also became the foundation for his professional career. After completing his junior season, McCarthy declared for the 2024 NFL Draft. The Minnesota Vikings selected him with the 10th overall pick, giving him an opportunity to continue his football career at the professional level.
Although his NFL journey has included injuries and a change of team, his achievements at Michigan remain an important part of his football background.
University of Michigan: The College That Shaped JJ McCarthy
The University of Michigan became McCarthy’s college destination after an impressive high school career. Located in Ann Arbor, the university is home to the Michigan Wolverines, one of the most recognized programs in American college football.
McCarthy joined the Wolverines in 2021 and competed in the Big Ten Conference. He played quarterback and wore jersey number 9.
The university offered a competitive football environment and opportunities to face nationally recognized opponents. Playing in the Big Ten also exposed him to experienced defensive players and challenging conference matchups.
His college career lasted three seasons. During that period, he developed under head coach Jim Harbaugh and eventually became the team’s starting quarterback.
JJ McCarthy’s college profile:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | Jonathan James McCarthy |
| Common name | JJ McCarthy |
| College | University of Michigan |
| College football team | Michigan Wolverines |
| Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan |
| Conference | Big Ten |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Jersey number | 9 |
| College seasons | 2021–2023 |
| College head coach | Jim Harbaugh |
| Listed academic major | General Studies |
| NFL Draft year | 2024 |
| Draft selection | 10th overall |
Michigan became an important part of McCarthy’s development because it provided opportunities to compete, learn, and improve. His progress was gradual, but his performances eventually helped the Wolverines reach the highest level of college football.
Why JJ McCarthy Chose Michigan for His College Football Career
Joining a major college football program is an important decision for any young quarterback. McCarthy had several opportunities to pursue his football ambitions, but Michigan became the university where he continued his development.
The Wolverines had a strong football tradition and regularly competed for conference championships. Their history and national recognition made the program an attractive destination for talented high school players.
The opportunity to compete in the Big Ten was another important part of the decision. The conference features established football programs and provides a challenging environment for young athletes.
Michigan also offered an experienced coaching staff.
Jim Harbaugh served as the head coach throughout McCarthy’s college career. Harbaugh had played quarterback professionally and understood the demands of the position.
His coaching experience helped shape Michigan’s approach to developing quarterbacks and building an effective offense.
However, joining Michigan did not guarantee immediate playing time. McCarthy entered a competitive quarterback room and had to demonstrate his abilities before earning the starting position.
Cade McNamara was Michigan’s established quarterback when McCarthy arrived. The competition gave the younger player an opportunity to learn the offensive system and understand the expectations associated with leading a major college team.
Rather than becoming the primary starter immediately, McCarthy developed through practice and game appearances.
That experience became important when he eventually took control of the offense in 2022.
JJ McCarthy’s High School Journey Before Michigan
Before attending the University of Michigan, McCarthy developed his football skills at the high school level.
He attended Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park, Illinois, before transferring to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, for his senior season.
His performances attracted attention from college recruiters because of his passing ability and athletic potential.
McCarthy demonstrated that he could deliver accurate throws, make decisions under pressure, and contribute with his legs when necessary.
IMG Academy provided a competitive environment where he could continue preparing for college football.
During his senior season, McCarthy helped the team finish with an 8-0 record as its starting quarterback.
His senior statistics included:
- 1,392 passing yards.
- 16 passing touchdowns.
- 92 completed passes.
- Zero interceptions.
Those performances strengthened his reputation as a talented quarterback prospect.
Michigan eventually became his college destination, where he had the opportunity to compete in one of the country’s most established football conferences.
His transition from high school to college required adjustments, but his early performances suggested that he had the potential to become an important player for the Wolverines.
A Freshman Season of Learning and Development in 2021
McCarthy began his college football career in 2021.
His freshman season was primarily about learning the demands of college football and becoming familiar with Michigan’s offensive system.
The transition from high school competition to the Big Ten was significant. Defenders were faster, defensive schemes were more complex, and every game required greater preparation.
Michigan also had an experienced quarterback in Cade McNamara.
As a result, McCarthy did not immediately become the team’s full-time starter. He received opportunities to appear in games and demonstrate his potential.
He played in 11 games during the 2021 season.
His freshman statistics included:
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Games played | 11 |
| Completions | 34 |
| Passing attempts | 59 |
| Passing yards | 516 |
| Passing touchdowns | 5 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Completion percentage | 57.6% |
Although his numbers were modest, the season gave him valuable experience.
He showed that he could make accurate passes and contribute to the offense. His mobility also allowed Michigan to use him in situations where movement outside the pocket could create opportunities.
The Wolverines enjoyed a successful season in 2021. They won the Big Ten Championship and reached the College Football Playoff.
Michigan eventually lost to Georgia in the national semifinal.
For McCarthy, participating in a championship-level program provided useful experience. He saw how successful teams prepared for major games and handled the pressure of postseason competition.
That first season helped prepare him for a much larger role.
How JJ McCarthy Became Michigan’s Starting Quarterback in 2022
The 2022 campaign marked an important turning point in McCarthy’s college career.
After competing with Cade McNamara, McCarthy earned the starting quarterback position.
The change increased his responsibilities considerably. He now needed to lead the offense, communicate with teammates, recognize defensive formations, and make decisions during important situations.
He responded with an impressive season.
McCarthy appeared in 14 games and completed 208 of 322 passing attempts. He recorded 2,719 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
His 2022 performance:
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Games played | 14 |
| Completions | 208 |
| Attempts | 322 |
| Passing yards | 2,719 |
| Passing touchdowns | 22 |
| Interceptions | 5 |
| Completion percentage | 64.6% |
| Rushing yards | 306 |
One of the most valuable parts of his playing style was his ability to contribute as a runner.
McCarthy could make accurate throws from the pocket, but he also had the athletic ability to move when defenders created pressure.
This flexibility gave Michigan’s offense additional options.
His performances helped the Wolverines maintain their position among the nation’s leading teams.
Michigan finished the regular season undefeated, captured another Big Ten Championship, and earned a place in the College Football Playoff.
For McCarthy, becoming the starting quarterback represented a major personal achievement. He had moved from a supporting role to becoming the central figure in Michigan’s offensive system.
Michigan’s 2022 Playoff Appearance Against TCU
Michigan entered the College Football Playoff with high expectations after an undefeated regular season.
The Wolverines faced TCU in the Fiesta Bowl semifinal on December 31, 2022.
The game became an exciting offensive contest. Both teams produced significant scoring opportunities, and neither managed to establish complete control.
TCU eventually defeated Michigan 51-45.
Despite the loss, McCarthy delivered one of his strongest performances of the season.
He recorded 343 passing yards and two touchdowns. His production helped Michigan remain competitive throughout the game.
The defeat ended the Wolverines’ championship ambitions for that season.
However, McCarthy gained another important experience against a nationally ranked opponent.
The game also highlighted areas where Michigan could improve before the following season.
McCarthy returned in 2023 with more experience and an opportunity to lead the team toward another championship campaign.
The 2023 Season Turned McCarthy Into a Championship-Level Quarterback
The 2023 season became the most successful period of McCarthy’s college career.
He entered the campaign as Michigan’s established starting quarterback. His experience from the previous two seasons helped him handle the responsibilities of leading the offense.
The Wolverines began the season with championship expectations.
McCarthy responded by delivering consistent performances and helping the team maintain an undefeated record.
He started all 15 games and completed 240 of 332 passes.
His final passing totals included 2,991 yards, 22 touchdowns, and four interceptions.
His completion percentage reached 72.3%, establishing a Michigan single-season program record.
JJ McCarthy’s 2023 statistics:
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Games played | 15 |
| Games started | 15 |
| Completions | 240 |
| Passing attempts | 332 |
| Passing yards | 2,991 |
| Passing touchdowns | 22 |
| Interceptions | 4 |
| Completion percentage | 72.3% |
| Rushing yards | 202 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 3 |
His accuracy and decision-making became major strengths.
McCarthy regularly completed passes without taking unnecessary risks. His ability to protect the football helped Michigan maintain offensive consistency.
The team’s success also increased his individual recognition.
He received the Griese-Brees Big Ten Quarterback of the Year award and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors.
He also finished 10th in the 2023 Heisman Trophy voting.
His achievements established him as one of the leading quarterbacks in college football during the season.
The Ohio State Rivalry Became Another Major Achievement
The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is among the most important annual matchups in college football.
The two programs have a long history and regularly compete for conference championships and national recognition.
McCarthy experienced three victories over Ohio State during his Michigan career.
The 2023 matchup was particularly important because Michigan entered the game undefeated and needed another victory to strengthen its championship position.
The teams met at Michigan Stadium on November 25, 2023.
Michigan defeated Ohio State 30-24 in a closely contested game.
McCarthy completed 16 of 20 passes for 148 yards and one touchdown.
His efficient performance helped Michigan secure the victory and advance to the Big Ten Championship Game.
The win also reinforced the Wolverines’ position as one of the strongest teams in the country.
Michigan Captured Another Big Ten Championship in 2023
After completing the regular season undefeated, Michigan faced Iowa in the Big Ten Championship Game.
The contest took place on December 2, 2023.
Michigan delivered an outstanding defensive performance and defeated Iowa 26-0.
The victory secured the Wolverines’ second consecutive Big Ten championship.
McCarthy helped manage the offense as Michigan relied on a balanced approach.
The team’s running game, passing opportunities, and defensive strength contributed to the victory.
Winning another conference title strengthened Michigan’s position in the College Football Playoff.
It also gave McCarthy another important achievement before the final stages of his college career.
The Rose Bowl Victory Over Alabama Sent Michigan to the Championship
Michigan’s next opponent was Alabama in the College Football Playoff semifinal.
The teams met in the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2024.
Alabama entered the game with a strong roster and significant postseason experience. Michigan needed a complete performance to advance.
The contest remained competitive throughout regulation and eventually went into overtime.
Michigan secured a 27-20 victory.
McCarthy completed 17 of 27 passes for 221 yards and three touchdowns.
His performance helped the Wolverines overcome a challenging opponent.
He also received Rose Bowl Offensive MVP recognition.
The victory gave Michigan a place in the national championship game and another opportunity to achieve its ultimate goal.
JJ McCarthy Helped Michigan Win the 2024 National Championship
The national championship game became the biggest moment of McCarthy’s college career.
Michigan faced Washington on January 8, 2024, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.
Washington entered the matchup after defeating Texas in the other playoff semifinal.
The Huskies had enjoyed an outstanding season and featured quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
Michigan approached the championship game with a balanced offensive strategy.
The Wolverines relied on their running game, defensive performance, and efficient quarterback play.
McCarthy completed 10 of 18 passes for 140 yards and one touchdown.
Michigan eventually defeated Washington 34-13.
The victory completed an undefeated 15-0 season and delivered the program’s first national championship since the 1997 season.
McCarthy’s contribution to the championship campaign became the defining achievement of his college career.
He had entered Michigan as a young quarterback competing for opportunities and finished as the leader of a national championship-winning team.
JJ McCarthy’s College Career Statistics and Records
McCarthy’s overall statistics show how his performance improved throughout three seasons.
His freshman campaign introduced him to college football. His sophomore year established him as a starting quarterback. His junior season delivered his strongest passing production.
By the end of his Michigan career, he had appeared in 40 games and made 28 starts.
His career statistics included:
| Career category | Total |
|---|---|
| Games played | 40 |
| Games started | 28 |
| Passing completions | 482 |
| Passing attempts | 713 |
| Passing yards | 6,226 |
| Passing touchdowns | 49 |
| Interceptions | 11 |
| Completion percentage | 67.6% |
| Rushing yards | 632 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 10 |
His 27-1 record as a starting quarterback is one of the most impressive parts of his college résumé.
That record represents a winning percentage of approximately 96.4%.
McCarthy also finished his college career among Michigan’s leading quarterbacks in passing efficiency and completion percentage.
His 49 passing touchdowns placed him tied for fourth in program history at the time of his departure.
What Did JJ McCarthy Study at Michigan?
McCarthy’s college experience included academic responsibilities alongside football.
He enrolled in the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science, and the Arts.
His listed academic major was General Studies.
Student-athletes competing in major college football programs must balance coursework with practices, games, training, travel, and team meetings.
McCarthy received Academic All-Big Ten recognition during both the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
This recognition reflected his academic achievements while participating in competitive college football.
His listed major identifies his academic program, but it does not independently establish that he completed a degree.
How His Michigan Achievements Led to the NFL
After completing his junior season, McCarthy declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.
The Minnesota Vikings selected him with the 10th overall pick in the first round.
His championship experience, passing accuracy, athleticism, and leadership helped establish him as a highly regarded quarterback prospect.
However, his first professional season included a major setback.
McCarthy suffered a knee injury during a preseason game in August 2024. The injury required surgery and prevented him from playing during the entire 2024 regular season.
He returned in 2025 and made 10 starts for Minnesota.
During that season, he recorded 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.
The experience provided an opportunity to adjust to NFL defenses and the demands of professional football.
JJ McCarthy’s Move to the New York Giants in 2026
McCarthy’s professional career took another turn in September 2026.
The Minnesota Vikings traded him to the New York Giants on September 28, 2026, in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round draft pick.
The move followed Minnesota’s decision to name Kyler Murray its starting quarterback for the 2026 season.
McCarthy had made 10 starts for Minnesota during the 2025 campaign before joining New York.
His move to the Giants created another opportunity to continue his professional development.
As of November 2026, his college background remains closely associated with Michigan. His professional team may have changed, but his national championship achievements and college statistics remain central to his football story.
Final Thoughts
JJ McCarthy’s college career at the University of Michigan played an important role in shaping his professional football journey. His development from a freshman backup into a national championship-winning quarterback demonstrated his ability to improve, compete, and lead a successful team.
His 27-1 starting record, 6,226 passing yards, and contribution to Michigan’s undefeated championship season remain defining achievements. Although his NFL career has taken him from Minnesota to New York, his connection with the Wolverines continues to be an important part of his football identity.
Which Michigan achievement impressed you most: his national championship victory, his outstanding starting record, or his individual quarterback honors? Share your opinion in the comments.