In the NFL, careers can collapse overnight—and then rise again just as quickly.
Now one analyst believes the league’s next shocking quarterback comeback story may already be hiding in plain sight.

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Analyst Predicts J.J. McCarthy Could Become NFL’s Next Redemption Story

The NFL has a long history of quarterbacks who struggled early in their careers before finding success later in the right system.

The latest example is Sam Darnold, whose career revival has reignited a debate across the league: which quarterbacks might follow a similar path?

According to Yahoo Sports analyst Jay Busbee, one surprising name could eventually fit that mold — J.J. McCarthy.

And Busbee isn’t thinking about next season.

He’s thinking years down the road.

A Bold Prediction for the Future

During a discussion about quarterbacks who could eventually revive their careers, Busbee made a prediction that immediately caught attention.

“I’m going off script here,” Busbee said.
“I’m taking J.J. McCarthy in 2028. He’s going to be a reclamation project. He’s going to win somebody a Super Bowl.”

The remark carried a playful tone, but it also reflected a real trend that has become increasingly common in the NFL.

Quarterbacks with strong college pedigrees often enter the league with massive expectations. But when they land in unstable situations—bad rosters, coaching changes, or dysfunctional organizations—their development can stall.

Sometimes it takes a completely new environment to unlock their true potential.

The Blueprint: Sam Darnold’s Revival

Busbee’s prediction stems from the template created by players like Sam Darnold.

Once considered a disappointment early in his career, Darnold eventually found success after landing in a system that better suited his strengths.

Stories like that have become more common in today’s NFL, where coaching philosophy and offensive systems play a massive role in quarterback development.

It’s not always about talent.

Sometimes it’s simply about fit.

A More Immediate Example: Mac Jones

While McCarthy represents a long-term possibility, Busbee pointed to a more immediate comeback story already unfolding in the league.

Former New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones quietly revived his career with the San Francisco 49ers during the 2025 season.

Jones originally joined the team on a modest two-year, $7 million contract, expected to serve as a backup behind quarterback Brock Purdy.

But injuries changed everything.

When Purdy missed time, Jones stepped in and delivered an impressive stretch of performances.

Over 11 games, including eight starts, Jones completed:

• 69.6% of his passes
• 2,151 yards
• 13 touchdowns
• 6 interceptions

He also guided the 49ers to a 5–3 record in his starts, helping stabilize the offense during a critical period.

Teams That Could Target Jones

Because of his resurgence, Jones has suddenly become an intriguing option for several teams across the league.

Busbee suggested that if Jones were to leave San Francisco, he could become a valuable starter or bridge quarterback elsewhere.

Among the teams mentioned as potential landing spots:

• Minnesota Vikings
• New York Jets
• Atlanta Falcons

Each of those franchises has faced uncertainty at quarterback in recent seasons.

For the Vikings, stability could be the priority.

The Jets continue to search for consistency under center.

And the Falcons may still be evaluating their long-term plan depending on the development of Michael Penix Jr. following injury.

Why the 49ers Might Not Let Him Go

Despite the growing interest, the San Francisco 49ers may have little incentive to move Jones.

Reports suggest the team could demand at least a second-round draft pick in any potential trade, a reflection of how valuable Jones proved during Purdy’s absence.

San Francisco also understands the importance of having a reliable backup quarterback on a roster built to compete for championships.

With Purdy’s injury history, keeping Jones may be the safest option.

The Bigger NFL Reality

Busbee’s broader message goes beyond any single player.

Quarterback careers in the NFL rarely follow a straight path.

Many players who are labeled “busts” early in their careers eventually thrive under the right circumstances.

The difference between failure and success often comes down to timing, coaching, and system fit.

And if Busbee’s prediction proves correct, J.J. McCarthy could someday become the next quarterback to rewrite his story.