2024 NFL Prospect Rankings: Quarterbacks

Two-year starter, the plus-athlete maneuvers the pocket with normally precise footwork and a sturdy overall base. Flashes accuracy in most throws on the route tree. Scans the field, makes plenty of anticipation throws, and will guide receivers to open space. Strong arm but has some inconsistency in release as he has a tendency to show a low wind release on intermediate and deep throws outside the numbers. This contributes to the wide miss that has hurt his consistency. When he's on he is a playmaker but has bouts of accuracy and footwork lapses. He has the upside to develop into a quality starter but not a finished product.

Playing in a pro-style offense under Jim Harbaugh that was built on a power run game, McCarthy did not have to carry the team week in, week out. His dropback volume and overall need to spray it all over the field did not reach the level of most others at the position. However when he needed to make a play he could. Solid processer in a somewhat limited offense he can play from the pocket. Shows arm strength and velocity and can make touch throws as well as plant the ball in a tight window. Can make plays with his feet and can move in the pocket along with taking off under pressure or if receivers covered. Tends to throw on one plane and not layer the ball when he needs to. That said he has very few flaws showing and could and has the upside and tools of a solid NFL starter.