Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy is preparing for his first season as a starter in the NFL.
After spending all of last season watching and learning, the former Michigan Wolverine has been handed the reins to head coach Kevin O'Connell's offense, and expectations are high coming off a 14-win season in 2024.
There's a belief in McCarthy, though, especially from one former franchise great who believes he has what it takes to succeed at this level.
Daunte Culpepper Believes in J.J. McCarthy
Former Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper was interviewed by betway.com and asked about the Michigan standout after spending a few weeks at training camp with Minnesota this Summer.
"I think he's a great quarterback. I don't think he gets enough credit athletically, based on the offense that he played in at Michigan." Culpepper said.
"I got a chance to be around him for about three weeks last month and I'll tell you I was blown away with his accuracy, his ball placement and just the zip he has on his passes. I was very impressed, and his footwork is very, very good. So he's primed to have a great year and I'm pulling for him."
That's high praise from Culpepper, who was a very successful quarterback in the NFL for a few seasons himself. If anyone knows what it takes to make it in the pros, it's him.
But Culpepper doesn't just think McCarthy has it physically, he believes the former Michigan man is a leader on and off the field.
"In the time I was around him, I noticed that he has that ‘it factor’ as a leader. He’s well respected, because he’s earned the respect of his teammates through the hard work and dedication that he’s put into getting himself ready."
Culpepper's words will be music to Vikings fans' ears, as they eagerly await McCarthy's NFL debut Monday night against the Chicago Bears next week.