Two of college football’s biggest stars are heading to the NFL after Michigan quarterback JJ McCarthy and running back Blake Corum both declared for the Draft.
Just days after their blowout win over Washington in the national championship, the Wolverines’ two biggest names revealed they are headed to the pros and will enter the NFL Draft at the end of April.
McCarthy, 20, has been one of college football’s standout quarterbacks the past two seasons and is expected to be a first-round pick.
Corum, meanwhile, is expected to go in the second or third round after four impressive years as a Michigan Wolverine.
In a post on Instagram, McCarthy — who was labeled the best quarterback in college football history by his coach Jim Harbaugh last week — explained his decision.
“After three incredible years at the University of Michigan, I have decided to enter the 2024 NFL Draft,” he began.
“I have spoken with many inside and outside of football, including my family, Coach Harbaugh, and many whose opinions I greatly admire and respect. This decision was not easy and how could that happen? I love my teammates, I love my coaches, and I love it here in Ann Arbor.
“It’s almost impossible to put into words what this university and my time here have meant to me, but I’m going to take three deep breaths and try.”
He then thanked his faith, family, girlfriend Katya, agency and Michigan fans in an emotional post, before closing with, “Now and forever, GO BLUE!”
Corum, meanwhile, let his video highlights speak for themselves on his X account as he wrote, “Michigan, thank you for everything!! On to the next chapter of my journey. #2024nfldraft’
Both players were instrumental in Michigan’s winning season, with both playing leading roles in last week’s win over the Washington Huskies.
In the final, McCarthy was 10/18 and threw for 140 yards, while Corum had 21 carries for 134 yards and rushed for two touchdowns.
It’s shaping up to be a big summer of changes in Ann Arbor, with coach Harbaugh also being touted for a job in the NFL – which could decide where McCarthy and Corum end up in April.
There are eight vacancies in the National Football League and Harbaugh is expected to meet with the Los Angeles Chargers next week.
Reports also claim that the Las Vegas Raiders are interested in Harbaugh, but the players are in favor of interim coach Antonio Pierce getting the job full-time.
