4-star Miami QB commit makes bold claim at Elite 11 Finals

Dereon Coleman, a four-star quarterback from Orlando, has emerged as Miami’s quarterback of the future. He committed to the Hurricanes almost a year ago which followed just one official visit to Miami at the time, and he has since closed his recruitment decisively.

Currently competing in the prestigious Elite 11 Finals in Manhattan Beach, Coleman has attracted attention for a quick release and his competitive demeanor. Scouts at the event have highlighted his mechanics, likening them to those of Cam Ward.

During media appearances at the Elite 11, Coleman confidently stated, “They saw what Cam did and they only got a year of that. Imagine me being there 3–4 years … We are going to go win a national championship.” These remarks drew comparisons to Ward’s meteoric rise, including Heisman finalist status and single-season school records. His connection to Cam Ward has evolved beyond comparisons as the two have also trained together.

Statistically, Coleman has distinguished himself as a dual-threat quarterback over his high school career. He completed 69 percent of his passes for 5,648 yards, 44 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions across two seasons, while also rushing for 702 yards and eight scores. His 2024 passing efficiency reached a 72.8 percent completion rate with a QBR of 141.2.

The 2025 Elite 11 Finals lasts three days and brings together 20 of the nation’s top rising senior quarterbacks for coaching, drills, and 7-on-7. This year marks the event’s 27th anniversary and includes seven of the top 10 signal callers nationally. Faizon Brandon (Tennessee commit) is projected as a top contender for MVP and Texas commit Dia Bell earned MVP on day one but Coleman wasn’t too bad in his own right. Bud Elliot of CBS Sports was impressed with Coleman's performance on day one.

"“Miami commit Dereon Coleman has been one of the early standouts … impressing with his arm talent and mechanics. He's throwing the ball with excellent velocity and a tight, compact release … The confidence as a passer is showing through early reps.”"

Bud Elliot

Regardless of where Coleman ends in the final rankings, Miami has their guy, and eventually the entire country will come around to the fact that he's the truth.