Cam Ward has a clear message for NFL teams: “If you don’t draft me, that’s your fault.” The quarterback is prepared to face any inquiries from scouts regarding his decision not to finish his last game with the Miami Hurricanes. With confidence, he stated, “Okay, you’re either going to draft me or you’re not. You’ve got to remember you’re the same team that’s got to play me for the rest of my career, and I’ll remember that.”
Ward faced significant backlash online after opting out of the second half during the Hurricanes’ narrow 42-41 defeat to Iowa State in the Pop-Tarts Bowl last December. Remarkably, he shattered the NCAA Division I record for career touchdown passes before halftime, showcasing his talent on a grand stage.
As he prepares for the NFL Draft in April, Ward clarified that his decision to sit out the second half was not made in isolation; it was a collaborative choice involving both him and the coaching staff. “I just think we all got what we needed out of it,” he explained. “They saw things they need to work on for the upcoming season, and they also knew what I had on the line.”
Miami’s head coach, Mario Cristobal, has publicly supported Ward, labeling the claims of him quitting as “a false narrative.” Ward echoed this sentiment, stating, “If I could do it again, I’d do it the same way,” while also expressing a desire for a different outcome in the game.
In his illustrious college career, Ward concluded with 158 touchdown passes and an impressive 18,189 passing yards, ranking third in NCAA history. His achievements at Incarnate Word, Washington State, and Miami highlight his impressive journey through college football.
Looking ahead to the NFL Combine, Ward remains undecided about his participation but has confirmed his intent to showcase his skills at Miami’s pro day, scheduled between February 27 and March 2.
Recently, he received the prestigious Davey O’Brien Award, recognizing him as the nation’s top college quarterback. This accolade came shortly after he accepted the Manning Award, following in the footsteps of notable quarterbacks like Jayden Daniels, the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner. “To see him succeed is motivating for not only myself but all of the other quarterbacks,” Ward remarked, highlighting the competitive spirit that drives him and his peers.
