Daniel Jeremiah Would Be 'Shocked' If J.J. McCarthy Goes After No. 12 in NFL Draft

At least one prominent NFL draft analyst believes the floor for J.J. McCarthy is going to be the No. 12 overall pick.

During a media conference call on Wednesday, NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah said he would be "shocked" if McCarthy slides past the 12th spot in the first round of the 2024 draft that is currently owned by the Denver Broncos.

Based on the rumblings one week away from the start of the draft, it would be even more shocking if McCarthy even makes it out of the top five.

ESPN's Matt Miller reported last week there's enough speculation within the NFL right now that McCarthy going No. 2 overall to the Washington Commanders "has to be considered possible at this point."

It's assumed the first three picks in the draft are going to be quarterbacks. Caleb Williams seems like a lock to go No. 1 overall to the Chicago Bears. The Commanders are likely choosing between McCarthy, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye.

The New England Patriots at No. 3 overall are reportedly high on Maye and Daniels. The Minnesota Vikings are the most obvious trade-up candidate after already acquiring the No. 23 pick from the Houston Texans to go with their own selection at 11.

If the Vikings want to add a quarterback, their first option to trade up could come at No. 4 where the Arizona Cardinals are currently slated to pick. The Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders (No. 13) also have a need at quarterback and could look to move up.

McCarthy's stock has been soaring throughout the pre-draft process. He received rave reviews from an AFC scout coming out of Michigan's pro day.

Given the number of teams looking for a quarterback, and how many of them are picking high in the first round, the odds of McCarthy even getting to No. 12 seem slim at this point.