Cam Ward’s Journey to the Top of the NFL Draft
In the world of sports, few moments are as electrifying as the lead-up to the NFL Draft. This year, all eyes are on Cam Ward, a quarterback who has made waves with his impressive performances and is now poised to be the top overall pick. On a sunny day in Coral Gables, Florida, Ward took another step toward realizing his dream, showcasing his skills at Miami’s pro day.
Ward, a Heisman Trophy finalist, confidently declared that he has “solidified” himself as the top overall pick in next month’s NFL draft. This bold statement came after a workout in front of more than 90 NFL team staffers, including a full contingent from the Tennessee Titans, who currently hold the No. 1 pick. During the workout, Ward completed a pass and was seen having a conversation with Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi and president of football operations Chad Brinker. The message he conveyed was clear: “I’ll see you next month.”
“(I told them) ‘I’m solidifying it today,'” Ward said. “They finally got to see me throw in person. That should be all they need to see. But at the end of the day … I’m going to be happy whatever team I go to. I’m just trying to play football.”
Record-Breaking College Career
Ward’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. In his lone season with the Miami Hurricanes in 2024, he set multiple school records, including single-season records for passing yards, completions, passing touchdowns, and completion percentage. In his final collegiate game, he became the all-time FCS and FBS combined leader in passing touchdowns with 158.
Ward’s path to stardom began as a zero-star recruit out of West Columbia, Texas. He enrolled at Incarnate Word in 2020, where he threw for 6,908 yards and 71 touchdowns in just 19 games over two seasons. He then transferred to Washington State before the 2022 season, adding another 6,966 yards and 48 touchdowns against 16 interceptions over two seasons before making his way to Miami.
Ward always believed he could be the top pick in the NFL draft, even during his days at Incarnate Word. However, he knew he had to prove himself beyond the FCS level, which led to his transfers to Washington State and Miami.
“I think all I needed was a chance to play in a quarterback-driven system,” he said. “(Former Incarnate Word) coach (Eric) Morris gave me the opportunity, and I just think I always carry myself that type of way. But then also it comes to a level you have to play at. A lot of people won’t take a No. 1 overall player from the FCS … it comes from the Power Five level.
“So I just think every year I’ve gotten better, and it ultimately led to me being in consideration.”
The Titans’ Quarterback Dilemma
The Tennessee Titans are in a unique position as they hold the No. 1 pick in the draft. They previously drafted former Kentucky quarterback Will Levis in the second round in 2023. However, Levis has struggled, completing just 61% of his passes over two seasons for 3,899 yards and 21 touchdowns against 16 interceptions. He was benched in favor of Mason Rudolph late in the 2024 season as the Titans finished with a league-worst 3-14 record.
While Ward insists he would be happy to play for any team, he expressed excitement at the possibility of working with Titans coach Brian Callahan, who spent five seasons as the Cincinnati Bengals‘ offensive coordinator.
“I think Coach Callahan’s one of the best head coaches out there. The things he did with Joe Burrow when he first got into the league made him be real successful,” Ward said. “I just think the playbooks match up not only for there, but Cleveland and New York. A lot of those three teams did the same things that we did in Miami. So I think it’ll be plug and play.”
The 2025 NFL draft will be held April 24-26 in Green Bay, and all eyes will be on Cam Ward as he takes the next step in his football journey.
- Cam Ward’s journey from zero-star recruit to potential No. 1 NFL draft pick is a testament to his hard work and determination.
- The Tennessee Titans face a crucial decision with the No. 1 pick, especially given their recent struggles at the quarterback position.
- Ward’s excitement about potentially working with Titans coach Brian Callahan highlights the importance of coaching in a player’s development.
Originally Written by: Marcel Louis-Jacques
