The NFL remains a perennial topic of discussion, with significant developments occurring regularly. Just as the initial flurry of free agency activity settles, major trades inject fresh excitement. And amidst all this, teams are diligently gearing up for the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
Personally, I find attending pro days across various locations to be an enriching experience, offering valuable insights into prospective players. This week, I’ll be embarking on a couple of such visits in my quest for deeper understanding of these prospects.
Furthermore, I enjoy contemplating the intertwining realms of life and sports, often while cruising around with the roof down in my trusty old Jeep Wrangler TJ. Here are some musings that have emerged from these journeys throughout the week.
So, fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a journey through my reflections.
He Went to Jarrett
The Broncos have yet to bring in another seasoned quarterback this offseason, which surprises me. I had expected someone like Sam Darnold or Sam Howell to come in as a transitional quarterback, providing a bridge until a rookie was drafted. My belief that the Broncos will select a quarterback in the first round hasn’t wavered, and I even think they might trade up to secure their pick.
It seems that Jarrett Stidham might now be considered the bridge to the rookie quarterback. He was signed to a two-year contract last offseason and got the chance to start for the Broncos towards the end of the 2023 season, though the results weren’t impressive. Given Stidham’s struggles as a starter, I had anticipated the Broncos bringing in another veteran. However, it appears that Stidham might serve as the interim option. The question remains: for how long?
I’m not convinced that Stidham is the best choice, so I hope the rookie quarterback, once selected, starts as soon as possible. While rushing a rookie can be detrimental, I don’t see the benefit of sticking with Stidham unless the rookie is completely overwhelmed. Experience is crucial, and I hope the Broncos’ rookie passer, potentially the franchise quarterback, gains plenty of it this year.
It’s better to face challenges now, so both the team and the quarterback are better prepared to compete in 2025.
Broncos may go with Jarrett Stidham and a rookie at quarterback in 2024. https://t.co/A9HIPK9Qxu
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 17, 2024
While the idea of relying on Stidham alongside a rookie isn’t my top choice, I could certainly get behind it if the rookie proves ready sooner rather than later. If the rookie quarterback shows readiness and promise early on, it could potentially make the plan more appealing and even exciting.
Gushing About McCarthy
J.J. McCarthy, the Michigan quarterback, appears to be a strong contender for a first-round pick in the draft, potentially landing with the Denver Broncos. While he may not possess the same level of physical prowess as some of his counterparts in this draft class, McCarthy could be an excellent fit for Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton. Renowned for his winning mentality, McCarthy’s recent National Championship victory with the Wolverines has significantly bolstered his draft stock.
According to Daniel Jeremiah, the lead NFL Draft expert at NFL Network, McCarthy’s style of play may not appeal to everyone, but it could align well with Payton’s preferences. Despite not possessing an exceptionally strong arm, reminiscent of how scouts critiqued Drew Brees when he entered the league over twenty years ago, McCarthy excels at making comprehensive reads across the field and demonstrates precise pass placement.
One potential reason for any skepticism surrounding McCarthy’s abilities could stem from his college career, where he played alongside two standout running backs and benefited from a strong defensive unit. However, criticism of McCarthy’s skill set might be unfounded for those who haven’t closely observed his performances. While he may lack extensive proven experience, hence the high second-round grade from some evaluators, McCarthy exhibits undeniable natural talent, coupled with a proven track record of success and a willingness to embrace challenging coaching.
Overall, the growing positive buzz surrounding McCarthy underscores his potential as a highly intriguing prospect in the upcoming draft.
Had a discussion with a position coach for a team who doesn't need QB who couldn't stop gushing about JJ McCarthy and his timing, vision and intangibles. I'm telling you…. has a real shot of being QB3
— Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein) March 17, 2024
This time of the year often sees many prospects facing harsh criticism in the media, sometimes coming from “anonymous scouts” focusing on their perceived weaknesses. However, as more people closely observe McCarthy’s performances, there appears to be a growing trend of warming up to him.
No Interest in a Bargain?
On Saturday, the Pittsburgh Steelers orchestrated a trade with the Chicago Bears, acquiring quarterback Justin Fields, the 2021 first-round pick. This move followed their trade of quarterback Kenny Pickett, the 2022 first-round pick, to the Philadelphia Eagles on Friday. The Steelers managed to secure Fields by offering the Bears a sixth-round pick, which could potentially escalate to a fourth-round pick—a remarkable deal considering Fields’ talent.
Admittedly, Fields has yet to fully demonstrate his potential as a passer in the NFL. He has faced criticism for his inconsistent performances, high interception rate, and off-target passes. However, his exceptional rushing abilities, akin to those of Michael Vick, add another dimension to his game. I believe Fields’ passing skills haven’t been properly nurtured thus far.
This is where Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin comes into play. Unlike the Bears, who may have lacked patience with Fields, Tomlin’s established tenure and coaching acumen suggest he will invest the necessary time and effort to develop this promising young talent. While the Bears are expected to draft USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the first overall pick in the upcoming draft, they might come to regret parting ways with Fields for what appears to be a bargain.
Russell Wilson seeing Justin Fields show up to camp pic.twitter.com/Vrz7en62Sq
— FanDuel (@FanDuel) March 16, 2024
It’s understandable that Fields may not have seemed like the right fit for Sean Payton’s system, but personally, I would have liked to see the Broncos take a chance on his raw talent. The fact that the acquisition cost for him was so low leaves me somewhat disappointed that Denver didn’t take a shot. Given the potential Fields possesses, it wouldn’t be surprising if he ends up surpassing Wilson at some point this year. Under the guidance of Mike Tomlin, Fields could finally realize the potential many believed he had to become a franchise quarterback.
Plans Coming Together
Being creative has always brought me joy. Since high school, my dream was to become a comic book artist. I came close in 1993 when I almost worked for Legend Comics, but unfortunately, they went out of business right before my debut, putting my dream on hold. Instead of persisting and fighting for my dream, I decided to give up—for the time being.
In 2023, I decided to revive my passion. I turned all eight of my intellectual properties into 8-page “ashcan” comics and launched my independent comic book company, Smokin Gun Comics, with the support of fans and the comic book community through Kickstarter. Crowdfunding has made it easier than ever for anyone to pursue their dreams. It’s not necessarily easy, but the path to success is clearer.
While I spend a lot of time immersed in football study, writing comic books allows me to decompress. Though I don’t get to draw as much anymore, whenever I do, it’s a special moment for me. I learned how to draw from my mother, so putting pencil to paper feels like honoring her memory—a cherished experience. Not only am I creative as a writer, but I’m surrounded by creative individuals. Building a small business requires hard work, patience, and the support of talented people. I’m proud to call individuals like Ken Sullivan, Dan Kemp, or Ty Henderson my friends. These are talented individuals who are helping to bring my dreams to fruition in 2024 and beyond!
Shoutout my dude Ken for whipping up this @smokinguncomics thumbnail. #comicbooks #indiecomics #comicbookartist pic.twitter.com/W9Ap77oBpw
— Cecil Lammey (@CecilLammey) March 18, 2024
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