J.J. McCarthy and Blake Corum declare for 2024 NFL Draft

Michigan star quarterback J.J. McCarthy enters NFL draft, along with running back Blake Corum and defensive tackle Kris Jenkins.

Michigan's national-championship-winning quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, has decided to skip his senior season and enter the NFL draft. This announcement comes after a momentous 2023 season, where McCarthy led Michigan to a national title win, marking the team's first championship since 1997. The decision to leave was not an easy one for McCarthy, who expressed his love for his teammates, coaches, and the Ann Arbor community on his social media accounts.

Additionally, Michigan running back Blake Corum has also declared for the NFL draft following an impressive season. After a season-ending knee injury in 2022, Corum made a strong comeback in 2023, rushing for 1,245 yards and 27 touchdowns. He was named the offensive MVP of the national title game and set a school record with 3,737 rushing yards and 58 touchdowns during his career at Michigan.

Kris Jenkins, a top defensive tackle prospect, has officially declared for the draft as well. Jenkins, who recorded 37 total tackles and 2.5 sacks for the Wolverines this season, is expected to be a sought-after prospect in this year's draft.

With these key players leaving for the pros, the future of head coach Jim Harbaugh is also uncertain. Harbaugh is set to meet with the Los Angeles Chargers about their head coach vacancy, and several other NFL teams, including Atlanta, Carolina, Las Vegas, Seattle, Tennessee, and Washington, may have an interest in bringing him back to the NFL.

At a recent championship celebration, Michigan fans chanted "One more year!" as McCarthy addressed the crowd. Despite the decision to leave, McCarthy expressed his gratitude and love for the Michigan community, emphasizing that the university would always hold a special place in his heart.

McCarthy's impressive stats and contributions to Michigan's success have solidified his place as one of the most promising quarterbacks in college football. His journey from high school to Michigan, along with his dedication to mental health advocacy through his foundation, JJ For The Kids, have made him a respected figure both on and off the field.

The potential departure of Harbaugh has sparked discussions about his future with the Wolverines. Athletic director Warde Manuel is working on a new contract with Harbaugh, who has three seasons left on his deal, in the hopes of keeping him at Michigan.

As the football world eagerly awaits the NFL draft and coaching decisions, the legacy of McCarthy, Corum, and Harbaugh at Michigan will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the university and the sport as a whole.