Cam Ward anticipates facing inquiries regarding his decision to sit out the latter part of Miami’s Pop-Tarts Bowl defeat to Iowa State at the 2025 NFL combine. The potential top overall pick has a clear response prepared for such questions, which he revealed on Monday prior to receiving the Davey O’Brien Award, presented annually to the best college quarterback. “Alright, it’s simple – you either pick me or you don’t,” Ward told the Associated Press. “If you choose not to select me, that’s on you. Just remember, you’ll be the same team facing me throughout my career, and I’ll remember that.”
As the NFL draft approaches, speculation grows about whether Abdul Carter could challenge for the top spot in the first round. It’s worth noting that Ward wouldn’t be the first quarterback to adopt a determined attitude if not chosen first. Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs is a prime example, displaying a resilient mindset throughout his career. In a memorable game against the Chicago Bears in 2019, Mahomes notably counted to ten after scoring a touchdown. Despite being the 10th pick in the 2017 draft and the second quarterback chosen, Mahomes has excelled in the league while proving doubters wrong.
However, not all quarterbacks seeking redemption find success in the NFL. Josh Rosen, selected 10th overall by the Arizona Cardinals in 2018, infamously stated, “There were nine mistakes ahead of me.” Rosen’s time in Arizona was short-lived, lasting only one season before exiting the league in 2023.
Despite the uncertainties of his future, Ward remains unfazed by his decision to sit out the second half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl. He reiterated that the coaching staff had pre-planned the division of playing time between himself and Emory Williams. Ward emphasized that the choice was made for the betterment of both the team and himself, acknowledging the importance of preparing for the upcoming season. Reflecting on the game in which he surpassed Case Keenum’s record for most career touchdown passes in Div. I history, Ward expressed contentment with his decision: “If given another chance, I would handle it the same way.”
Nonetheless, Ward does have one regret regarding the outcome of the game. “I do wish we had won,” he admitted. “Had we emerged victorious, there wouldn’t have been any criticism. It’s par for the course, and you just have to accept it and move forward.”
For more insights on the 2025 NFL draft and potential franchise tag candidates, refer to the original article on USA TODAY where Cam Ward issues a warning to teams considering passing on him.
