J.J. McCarthy, Michigan‘s national championship-winning quarterback, is skipping his senior season to enter the NFL draft.
Running back Blake Corum also announced Sunday that he is entering the NFL draft.
McCarthy made the announcement Sunday, a day after being begged to stay.
The Wolverines had a parade through town, winding their way to their basketball arena. When it was McCarthy’s turn to talk to the sold-out crowd, a chant broke out as he stood and smiled.
“One more year! One more year!” the maize-and-blue clad fans shouted in unison Saturday night.
McCarthy reminded the audience of his social media post on Nov. 15, 2020 — amid the team’s 2-4 pandemic-shortened season — when he asked Michigan fans to take three deep breaths and gave thanks for the faith they had in the coaches and players.
Then, he addressed his future.
“I know lots of us got some big-time life decision to make,” McCarthy said on a stage at Crisler Center. “But I just want to let you guys know, whatever decisions come, Michigan will forever be in my heart and will always be in my heart. And, I will be proud to be known as a Michigan man.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.