Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal had high praise for his former quarterback and top NFL prospect Cam Ward.
While discussing the impact Ward had on the Hurricanes, Cristobal explained that Ward’s contributions ran much higher than just his on-the-field performances. Citing his ability to bring the team and program together, Cristobal believes Ward and some other teammates are deserving of praise.
Mario Cristobal Comments on Cam Ward
Ward was phenomenal on the field this season for the Hurricanes. He had 4,313 passing yards (second in the nation), 39 passing touchdowns (first in the country), and only seven interceptions on the year. In addition, he rushed for 204 yards and an additional four scores on the ground this campaign.
Cristobal expressed how much of a positive impact Ward and some other leaders had on every aspect of the Hurricanes football program.
“Even more so than the plays, the touchdowns, and the highlight reels was the fact that he played a major role along with guys like Jalen [Rivers] on bringing a team together. Which as we know, again, don’t want to beat a dead horse, but I came back to Miami after 20-plus years to make sure that Miami gets back to a certain level, and these guys have elevated it tremendously,” he detailed.
Ward’s 2025 NFL Draft Projection
As is clear, Ward’s impressive college season has not gone unnoticed by his now former coach. In addition, he is gaining the attention and praise of football fans and analysts alike, many of whom have him as one of the top overall picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.
In College Football Network’s recent 2025 NFL Mock Draft, Ward was selected by the Cleveland Browns at No. 2 overall. This pick would make sense for both sides, as the Browns are in need of a long-term answer at QB and the offense has exciting talents, such as wide receiver Jerry Jeudy and tight end David Njoku for Ward.
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“The Cleveland Browns, once again, are in desperate need of a new quarterback,” CFN’s James Fragoza wrote. “After the disastrous experiment with Deshaun Watson, there needs to be a change in Cleveland. Adding the Heisman Trophy finalist should give the Browns some juice that is much needed in that building.”
“Cam Ward has looked excellent under pressure with his time in college football and will deliver some poise to this Browns offense. He has a high ceiling, and his experience should allow him to have an immediate effect on Day 1.”
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