Cam Ward was originally a zero-star high school prospect. His amazing path to success hit a high note last week when the Tennessee Titans made him the No. 1 pick of the 2025 NFL Draft. The young quarterback’s path to the NFL was anything but normal, filled with adversity, exceptional skill and a never-ending drive to succeed. Ward capped his lone season with the Hurricanes by guiding Miami to its first 10-win year since 2017. On a national stage—televised, too—he showcased his skills powerfully.
Ward started his college career at Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas, where he accepted his only scholarship offer. During a COVID-shortened season, he made headlines by passing for 2,260 yards and leading the FCS with 24 touchdowns in just six games. His standout performance earned him the Jerry Rice Award, recognizing him as the most outstanding freshman in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
In another bid to advance his prospects, Ward made the move to Washington State, where he played for the air raid disciple Eric Morris. In two seasons with the Cougars, Ward was incredibly productive, setting a 65.5% completion percentage while throwing for 6,698 yards and 48 touchdowns. Due to his work, he was named honorable mention All-Pac-12 in both 2022 and 2023.
During his playing career, Ward consistently consulted with his parents and an agent. In the meantime, Miami’s new offensive coordinator, Shannon Dawson, went all in on the four-star quarterback. During this process — following his freshman year at Incarnate Word — he decided to seek even more wisdom from his personal QB coach, Colbert. His commitment to doing better really came through. He made the change from averaging only 12 pass attempts a game in high school’s wing-T offense to one of college football’s most prolific passers.
Ward’s confidence has been a cornerstone of his success, as noted by Quandre Diggs, a player familiar with his journey.
“He’s always had confidence, a natural chip on his shoulder,” – Quandre Diggs
This confidence is not just swagger though, it comes from a deep dedication to players out working the competition and putting in their craft.
“It’s because he works hard. You could see that since when he was young,” – Quandre Diggs
Cam Ward’s ability to connect with teammates was highlighted by Titans’ scouts and coaches. Callahan remarked on Ward’s leadership qualities.
“It’s the leadership ability and the way he’s able to make those around him better,” – Callahan
He doubled down on the notion that great quarterbacks possess an innate and rare talent to elevate their teammates.
“There are a lot of guys that can play the position, but the guys that transcend have a unique ability to connect with their teammates and then raise the level of everyone around him,” – Callahan
As Ward got ready to enter the NFL Draft, he never took his eye off the prize.
“I’ve had the dream since I was a little kid,” – Cam Ward
He showed a real sense of the pressures that come with those kind of expectations.
“If you don’t draft me, that’s your fault,” – Cam Ward
Ward’s grit made itself known at a time when his definition of resilience was tested most in college. Reflecting on those bad outings, he knew the key was to respond.
“We played Cal and I had some bad plays,” – Cam Ward
He said it was spending on infrastructure that he was able to pivot toward at key early junctures.
“But I was able to get back on track and make some plays in the second half to win the game,” – Cam Ward
It’s this capacity to maintain his cool when the heat is on that was almost certainly behind the Titans’ interest in him throughout the pre-draft process. Additionally, Borgonzi praised Ward’s mindset.
“It is not cocky or arrogant, but there’s a confidence there that you need to have as a player and a quarterback,” – Borgonzi
Everyone is sounding off as if Cam Ward has just been taken first overall in the NFL Draft. He’s looking forward to diving into this next phase of his life and career with the Tennessee Titans. The organization have long been excited by the potential of adding a player with such a captivating narrative, but proven success hungry to the
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