Five years ago, quarterback Cam Ward was virtually unknown outside West Columbia. But on April 24, 2025, the 22-year-old could be the first name called in the NFL Draft. His path to this moment? Nothing short of extraordinary.
Cam Ward’s Path to the NFL Draft
Ward is best known for his season at the University of Miami and, before that, his time at Washington State. However, his journey began at Incarnate Word—the only program offering him a scholarship out of high school.
Ward is the greatest player in Incarnate Word history, passing 6,908 yards and 71 touchdowns in 19 games. He led the program to its first-ever 10-win season and its first FCS playoff victory, earning Southland Conference Offensive Player of the Year honors.
If he’s selected first overall, he’ll become the first player to begin his college career at the FCS level and go No. 1 in the NFL Draft—a milestone only North Dakota State’s Carson Wentz came close to, going No. 2 overall in 2016.
Washington Huskies fans are familiar with Ward. On Jan. 10, 2022, the QB announced his commitment to Washington State, enrolling for the second semester of his sophomore year.
After impressing in spring practices, he earned the starting QB role for the 2022 season. That year, he completed 64.4% of his passes, throwing for 3,231 yards, 23 touchdowns, and nine interceptions while rushing for five scores. On Dec. 1, 2023, Ward entered the transfer portal and later graduated from WSU during the school’s December commencement.
Initially declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft, Ward returned to college football to improve his draft stock and capitalize on the growing opportunities under NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rules.
On January 13, 2024, he committed to the Miami Hurricanes, and the move paid off. Ward led Miami to a stellar 10-2 season, earning ACC Player of the Year honors. He was recognized as the nation’s top quarterback, securing the Davey O’Brien and Manning Awards, and finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting.
KEEP READING: Mike Tannenbaum Backed Cam Ward for Titans Before Tim Boyle Signing Twist
Football is taking Ward to Lambeau Field in Green Bay, where he’s poised to become the No. 1 overall pick. After that, Nashville could be his next stop.
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