Cam Ward Spurns NFL and Transfers to Miami

'Miami Hurricanes Birthday' Photo Credit: Ines Hegedus-Garcia via Flickr

In a surprising 180, quarterback Cam Ward from Washington State surprisingly decided not to enter the NFL Draft and return to school. The only question was where since Ward had previously chosen to enter the transfer portal after completing the 2023 season with Washington State. The answer was delivered shortly with Ward announcing his commitment to the University of Miami for the 2024 season.

Ward although originally entering the transfer portal in December, had announced that after two seasons at Washington State, he was going to enter the NFL Draft. After some more thought on the matter, Ward did an about-face and decided that he would take his talents to the Hurricanes. The move will cause a bit of competition with the Hurricanes also bringing in another transfer at quarterback Reese Poffenbarger from the University of Albany.

With Ward, the Hurricanes get an experienced playmaker. Ward, who spent two seasons at Incarnate Word before his two seasons at Washington State has been prolific in his offenses. At Incarnate Word, he won the Jerry Rice Award (FCS Most Outstanding Freshman). He also threw for 6,908 yards and 71 touchdowns with only 14 interceptions over the two seasons. After transferring to the Cougars, he continued his proficiency with 6,968 more yards passing and 48 touchdowns with only 16 interceptions. He has shown a good ability to accurately deliver the ball to his playmakers in all areas of the field. He's got a great arm and can help keep defenses honest making plays as a runner as well. Over his previous four seasons, he tallied 1,176 yards and added another 16 scores on the ground.

The decision by Ward to return to the college ranks instead of entering the Draft process could prove beneficial for him in the long run. He is betting on himself to shine in a big-time program. While Ward has been prolific with his production, he has had more than his share of turnovers, having 18 fumbles in addition to his 30 career interceptions. In a deep quarterback class, stepping back to refine his game seems like the right one for him to ultimately improve his stock. For the Hurricanes, waited patiently originally seeking Ward's services when he announced his original intention to transfer. The about-face should give Hurricanes fans some exciting moments in the upcoming season. With the addition of Ward, the Hurricanes also give themselves security at the quarterback position that was depleted with the departure of Tyler Van Dyke earlier in the transfer portal window.