Michigan and Michigan State are two of the most bitter in-state rivals in college football, even getting into a brawl in the tunnel of Michigan Stadium following their matchup during the 2022 season.
Both programs also regularly put players in the NFL, occasionally turning foes into teammates at the pro level. Which became the case for wide receiver and Spartan Jalen Nailor when the Minnesota Vikings selected Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy with the No. 10 overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
After squaring off in college, the two are now working together in Minnesota’s offense. And clearly working well, with McCarthy finding Nailor for a touchdown during Vikings’ training camp that can be seen below.
McCarthy connected with Nailor during a 7-on-7 period in the first training camp practice for the Vikings on Saturday at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center. A practice that was sold out as Minnesota fans were eager to get an early look at their first round rookie quarterback who led Michigan to a national championship win last college football season.
Minnesota also signed veteran quarterback Sam Darnold to a one-year, $10 million deal this offseason. Who will start at the top of the depth chart at quarterback for the Vikings as McCarthy develops and prepares for his opportunity to eventual be QB1 in Minnesota.
“JJ, I see why they drafted the dude first round and the pick that they did because he’s a good dude. He’s a good human being, he’s a stud.” Vikings offensive lineman Dalton Risner said. “I love what they’re doing with him, they’re not just throwing him in the fire right away. I think they’re giving him time to develop and I’d put all my chips on that dude in a couple years man.”
Nailor on the other hand is entering his third season with the Vikings after being selected in the sixth round with the No. 191 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Looking to make more of an impact this upcoming season and stay healthy after catching 12 passes for 208 yards and a touchdown between his first two seasons with Minnesota. Appearing in six games last season where he also got his first career start, also spending extended time on the injured reserve.
It will be intriguing to see how Minnesota’s offense looks following the departure of Kirk Cousins and how much of an impact Nailor and McCarthy could potentially have this upcoming season.
