J.J. McCarthy was once the golden boy of Michigan football—a national champion, a leader, and the heart of the Wolverines’ offense. Yet, as he embarks on his professional career, his latest actions off the field are making some Michigan fans wonder: Did the Wolverines mishandle their star quarterback?
McCarthy’s recent charitable efforts in Minnesota have been widely celebrated, but they also highlight a reality that some in Ann Arbor find uncomfortable. The quarterback who helped bring a national title back to Michigan has now fully embraced his new home—leaving behind the program that shaped him. And some Wolverines faithful are starting to feel abandoned.
Did Michigan Undervalue McCarthy?
Despite leading Michigan to its first undisputed national championship since 1997, McCarthy never seemed to get the superstar treatment that other college QBs received.
- He wasn’t a Heisman finalist, despite outperforming several who were.
- He often played second fiddle to Michigan’s elite defense and run game in media narratives.
- Some Michigan fans even debated whether he was just a “game manager” rather than a true franchise quarterback.
Now, with McCarthy fully embracing his role as Minnesota’s future in the NFL, many Wolverines supporters are realizing just how much they took him for granted.
Why Minnesota? Shouldn’t His Legacy Be in Michigan?
Since arriving in Minnesota, McCarthy has wasted no time immersing himself in the community. His recent charitable work, including visits to local schools and youth programs, has drawn praise—but also some bitter reactions from Michigan fans.
“All that love for Minnesota, but where was this for Ann Arbor?” one Wolverines fan posted on social media. “Michigan gave him everything, and now he’s all about the Vikings.”
It’s a harsh take, but it raises a valid question. Shouldn’t McCarthy’s deep connection to Michigan have resulted in him continuing his charity work there, even after leaving?
Did Jim Harbaugh Hold Him Back?
Adding to the controversy is the ongoing debate over how McCarthy was used at Michigan.
- Some analysts argue that Harbaugh’s run-heavy, conservative offense stunted McCarthy’s development.
- The Wolverines rarely unleashed him as a passer the way other elite QBs were showcased.
- Michigan’s coaching staff often emphasized that McCarthy was a “winner,” but did they ever truly let him show just how elite he could be?
If the Wolverines had trusted McCarthy more, could he have won the Heisman? Could he have been the No. 1 overall draft pick? Would he have even wanted to leave Michigan behind so quickly?
A Future Without McCarthy: Will Michigan Regret It?
As McCarthy settles into his role as the face of the Vikings, Michigan fans are left to wonder what could have been.
- If Michigan struggles at QB next season, will they regret not fully unleashing McCarthy when they had the chance?
- If McCarthy dominates in the NFL, will his Michigan legacy be overshadowed by his Vikings success?
- Could Michigan’s system ultimately be seen as a stepping stone rather than a destination for elite quarterbacks?
For now, McCarthy’s Michigan chapter is closed. But as he flourishes in Minnesota—both on and off the field—the Wolverines may soon realize that they didn’t just lose a great quarterback. They lost an icon.