Two of college football’s biggest stars are heading for the NFL, after Michigan quarterback JJ McCarthy and running back Blake Corum both declared for the Draft.
Just days on from their huge win over Washington in the national championship, the Wolverines’ two biggest names revealed that they’re heading for the pros, and will be in the NFL Draft at the end of April.
McCarthy, 20, has been one of the standout quarterbacks in college football over the past two seasons and is projected 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 as the best quarterback in college football history by his coach Jim Harbaugh last week – explained his decision.
JJ McCarthy (left) and Blake Corum (right) have both declared for the 2024 NFL Draft
Decision comes after they helped Michigan beat Washington to win the national championship
Quarterback McCarthy posted a long and emotional statement thanking the fans and team
‘After three incredible years at the University of Michigan, I have decided to enter the 2024 NFL Draft,’ he began.
‘I have talked to many in and out of football, including my family, Coach Harbaugh, and many who’s [sic] opinions I greatly admire and respect. This decision was not easy and how could it be – I love my teammates, I love my coaches, and I love it here in Ann Arbor.
‘It is almost impossible to put into words what this University and my time here has meant to me, but I am going to take three deep breaths right now and try.’
He then went on to thank his faith, family, girlfriend Katya, agency, and the Michigan fans in an emotional post, before signing off with: ‘Now and forever, GO BLUE!’
Corum, meanwhile, let his video highlights do the talking on his X account as he wrote: ‘Michigan, thank you for everything!! Onto the next chapter in my journey. #2024nfldraft’
Both players were instrumental in Michigan’s national championship-winning season, with both playing leading roles in the win over the Washington Huskies last week.
Corum wears a t-shirt reading ‘business is finished’ after winning a ring with Michigan
McCarthy also heaped praise on his girlfriend Katya, who he regularly posts about on socials
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 is set to be a big summer of change in Ann Arbor, with coach Harbaugh also being touted for a job in the NFL – which could decide where one or both of McCarthy and Corum land come 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 the Las Vegas Raiders are interested in Harbaugh, but the players are in favor of interim coach Antonio Pierce getting the job full-time.
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