Blake Cashman, the Minnesota Vikings’ new linebacker, has seen the full range of rookie quarterback performances in his young NFL career. His experiences with Zach Wilson and C.J. Stroud give him a unique perspective on evaluating new talent. Recently, Cashman shared his thoughts on Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, providing high praise and insight into the young player’s potential.
Experiences with Rookie QBs:
- Zach Wilson (2021, New York Jets): Cashman witnessed Wilson’s struggles during his challenging first season.
- C.J. Stroud (2023, Houston Texans): Cashman saw Stroud’s impressive rookie campaign, showcasing exceptional talent and leadership.
Impressions of J.J. McCarthy:
On The Jim Rome Show, Cashman expressed his respect for McCarthy, highlighting his qualities:
- Character and Leadership: “He’s 21 years old, but a great young man. He’s a leader. He’s eager to learn,” Cashman said. McCarthy stands out for his positive attitude, engaging personality, and eagerness to connect with teammates.
- Confidence: Unlike some rookies who might be timid or shy, McCarthy is confident and approachable, which has made a positive impression in the locker room.
College Achievements:
McCarthy built a strong reputation at Michigan:
- Playoff Appearances: Led the Wolverines to two playoff appearances in the past two seasons.
- National Championship: Guided Michigan to a national championship victory in January.
NFL Draft and Competition:
- Drafted No. 10 Overall: The Vikings traded up to select McCarthy in the 2024 NFL Draft.
- Competition: McCarthy is expected to compete with veteran Sam Darnold for the starting quarterback position. Head coach Kevin O’Connell aims to create a “competitive environment” in training camp, with no guarantees for any quarterback.
McCarthy’s Talent:
Cashman, having observed McCarthy during minicamps and organized team activities, praised his abilities:
- Arm Talent: “I didn’t realize how much heat he can put on the ball,” Cashman remarked. McCarthy’s ability to throw long passes and fit the ball into tight windows has been particularly impressive.
- Accuracy and Strength: Cashman noted McCarthy’s exceptional long ball and his precision in tight situations, predicting these skills will serve him well in the NFL.
Outlook and Potential:
- Promising Future: Cashman is confident in McCarthy’s potential, both as a player and a leader. “He’s gonna be a great player for a long time, and I can’t wait to continue to see his growth,” Cashman said.
- Comparison to Other Rookies: The unpredictability of rookie success is evident, with examples like Zach Wilson and C.J. Stroud. Yet, Cashman’s optimism for McCarthy remains strong, based on his early observations.
Conclusion:
Blake Cashman’s endorsement of J.J. McCarthy comes from a place of experience and careful observation. As the Vikings’ rookie quarterback prepares for his first NFL season, McCarthy has already made a significant impression with his talent, leadership, and confidence. The upcoming training camp and season will be critical in determining how McCarthy transitions to the NFL, but the early signs point to a promising future.