Overview

• McCarthy showcased accuracy in non-padded acclimation drills but failed to reproduce that efficiency in full-pad sessions.
• Facing Brian Flores’ blitz-heavy schemes, McCarthy struggled to convert passes and recorded only one positive-yard gain in an eight-play starters drill.
• After missing his entire 2024 season with a torn meniscus, he leveraged extensive offseason film study, quizzes, and weekly meetings with coach Kevin O’Connell to prepare for live reps.
• Coach Kevin O’Connell emphasized growth over perfection, highlighting McCarthy’s competitive drive during post-play analysis and asserting that early camp struggles are part of his development.
• Justin Jefferson praised McCarthy’s head-on-straight attitude and confidence in the huddle, and center Ryan Kelly commended his offseason work ethic.