There's no denying the love shared between former Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh and the quarterback who led him to a National Championship, J.J. McCarthy. However, as the second-year QB struggles to find his footing in the NFL, the support hasn't exactly been shared out loud.
When asked about McCarthy's struggles so far this season (his true first year as the Minnesota Vikings' starting QB after tearing his meniscus last season), Harbaugh expressed his love for the person but not necessarily his belief in the player at this level.
"Love J.J. [McCarthy]. Tremendous competitor and player. But I'm not in a position to weigh in," Haurbaugh said.
It isn't clear if Harbaugh thinks McCarthy can make it in the NFL
Since taking over as the Vikings' starter, McCarthy has led Minnesota to a 4-7 overall record, landing the team in last place in the NFC North.
No, the former Wovlerine isn't the entire reason the Vikings have that abysmal record. While McCarthy missed even more in-game action, veteran quarterback Carson Wentz stepped into the starting role.
However, over his six games as QB1, McCarthy has been the go-to guy and has carried Minnesota to just two wins. Not exactly ideal for a guy who is only two years removed from his national title run.
Harbaugh's statement was... nice, but that's about as far as you can go when describing the head coach's support for his former quarterback. He could have at least said he believes that McCarthy will succeed at this level, or that he thinks he's worthy of the starting role.
Yet, Harbaugh simply said he loves McCarthy and that the young QB is a great competitor, not even truly voicing his belief in McCarthy as a professional athlete, as he chose not to comment on whether he deserves the starting job.
This Sunday, McCarthy is set to lead the Vikings against one of their rivals, the Chicago Bears, who are led by the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Caleb Williams.
Chicago and Minnesota are scheduled to kick off at 4:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 30, and the game will be aired on FOX.