Chargers News: Jim Harbaugh Makes Stunning Claim Regarding Former Michigan QB

We will be shocked if this actually happens.

Newly-hired Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh has always been known for his firm belief in his players (once they prove themselves to him, at least). 

But now that confidence may be clouding his judgement.

The top of the impending NFL draft is set to be loaded with upper-tier quarterback talent. JJ McCarthy, the quarterback with whom Jim Harbaugh won the College Football Playoffs championship this past season, is not even considered to be among the four best prospects at his position this year -- that'd be USC Trojans 2023 Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams, Louisiana State University Tigers 2024 Heisman Trophy Winner Jayden Daniels, Washington University Huskies play caller Michael Penix Jr., and Oregon Ducks standout Bo Nix.

Nevertheless, Harbaugh is convinced that his guy could be the first quarterback drafted this spring, as he relayed to Fox Sports' Colin Cowherd (clip via Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team).

Jim Harbaugh on Michigan QB JJ McCarthy: "Don't be surprised if/when he's the number one QB off the board. That's my prediction right now."

Bold statement by the new #Chargers head coach.

(📽️ @theherd)pic.twitter.com/XZDIvXjj0t

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 2, 2024

"Don't be surprised if/when he's the number one QB off the board," Harbaugh claimed. "That's my prediction right now." 

Whether or not McCarthy, projected as a mid-first round draft pick, winds up being the best player from among this year's bunch is an entirely different question. Perhaps Harbaugh is on to something there. But in terms of prognosticating draft order, there's little question McCarthy will at least fall short being picked prior to Williams, Daniels and Penix.