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Phil Riewer -> RE: General Vikes Talk (5/14/2025 4:18:57 PM)
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Comparing the arm strength of Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy involves looking at their performances, scouting reports, and expert observations from their time in college and the NFL. Here’s a breakdown based on available information:
Sam Darnold
Arm Strength: Darnold has consistently been praised for his arm talent. During his time at USC and early in his NFL career, analysts noted his ability to make high-difficulty throws, particularly off-platform and under pressure. His arm strength was evident in his ability to throw deep balls with velocity, as seen in his 69-yard completion to Jordan Addison in 2024, where he delivered a pass 25 yards downfield without stepping into the throw.
NFL Performance: In 2024, Darnold ranked third in the NFL in Pro Football Focus’s "big-time throws" statistic (25), which tracks high-difficulty passes, often deep throws. He had the second-highest completion percentage on throws beyond 20 yards and was noted for his ability to fit balls into tight windows. Former teammates and coaches, like T.J. Hockenson and Kyle Shanahan, have compared his arm talent to elite quarterbacks like Matthew Stafford, emphasizing his ability to "flick" the ball with ease on deep throws.
Scouting Reports: Pre-draft analyses in 2018 highlighted Darnold’s arm as a strength, with the ability to make all pro throws, though his accuracy on deep outs sometimes resulted in fluttery passes. His arm strength was described as "average" to "above average" but highly effective when combined with his confidence and mobility.
J.J. McCarthy
Arm Strength: McCarthy was known at Michigan for having one of the strongest arms in college football, capable of throwing 60 yards downfield with accuracy. His arm talent was a standout trait, often described as generating "explosive" velocity with tight spirals and efficient mechanics. During Vikings OTAs in 2024, observers noted that his passes had more "zip" than Darnold’s, with the ball appearing to "explode out of his hand."
NFL Context: McCarthy’s rookie season was cut short by a meniscus injury, limiting him to one preseason game, so direct NFL comparisons are sparse. However, in training camp and OTAs, he outperformed Darnold in certain drills, going 19/21 with 7 touchdowns in one practice and 4/6 with 4 touchdowns in red-zone 7-on-7s. His arm strength was praised by teammates like Justin Jefferson, who noted his ability to deliver deep balls even when not immediately seeing the receiver.
Scouting Reports: Pre-draft concerns about McCarthy’s arm strength were minimal, though some analysts noted he struggled with touch on deeper throws and could underthrow sideline shots. His arm was still considered elite, with potential to develop further with coaching.
Comparison
Raw Arm Strength: McCarthy likely has the edge in pure arm strength. His ability to generate velocity with minimal effort and throw tight spirals was consistently highlighted in college and early NFL practices. Observers at Vikings OTAs specifically noted his passes had more zip than Darnold’s, suggesting a higher ceiling in raw power.
Functional Arm Strength: Darnold’s arm strength translates effectively in NFL game situations. His 2024 season showcased his ability to make big-time throws under pressure, ranking him among the league’s best in this category. His experience allows him to leverage his arm strength more consistently in live games compared to McCarthy, who has limited NFL tape.
Mechanics and Accuracy: McCarthy’s mechanics are described as more fluid and efficient, contributing to his velocity. Darnold’s throwing motion is quirkier, sometimes appearing off-balance, which can affect accuracy on certain throws like deep outs. However, Darnold’s accuracy improved significantly in 2024, with a 66.2% completion rate and a 102.5 passer rating.
Conclusion
J.J. McCarthy likely has the better raw arm strength, with his passes showing more velocity and tighter spirals in controlled settings like OTAs and training camp. However, Sam Darnold’s arm strength is more proven in NFL game situations, where his ability to make high-difficulty throws under pressure has been a standout in 2024. Without more NFL game tape for McCarthy, Darnold’s practical application of arm strength gives him a slight edge in functional performance, but McCarthy’s potential suggests he could surpass Darnold with more experience.
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