Former University of Miami tight end Cam McCormick is officially stepping into the NFL after landing a new opportunity with a team in the AFC East. The former nine‑year college player has been hired by the New England Patriots as a scouting assistant, marking his transition into talent evaluation after going undrafted this spring.
Former University of Miami TE Cam McCormick, who famously had nine years of college eligibility and went undrafted this year, has been hired by the #Patriots as a scouting assistant. pic.twitter.com/6OUUbaWX9k
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 15, 2025
McCormick’s tale is unlike any other in recent memory. Playing across two schools, he began at Oregon in 2016 and battled through major injuries. He lost entire seasons between 2018 and 2021 and did not play in his true freshman season. Despite that, he earned a medical redshirt for each setback, plus another during COVID, eventually receiving a ninth year of NCAA eligibility which is thought to be a first in Division I history. At Oregon, McCormick played in 29 games logging 18 receptions for 169 yards and four touchdowns.
He transferred to Miami in 2023, bringing veteran leadership and production. During his time in college, McCormick recorded 32 career catches for 273 yards and seven touchdowns over 55 games. With Miami in 2023, he recorded eight receptions for 62 yards and in 2024 he totaled six receptions for 42 yards and three touchdowns in 13 games.
McCormick earned the nickname “Van Wilder” for his marathon tenure and unbreakable spirit. Now, he’s channeling that experience into scouting, joining a Patriots front office that’s strengthened ties with Miami. Alonzo Highsmith, a Miami alum, is now a front office executive in New England and maybe there is a connection at play that could help McCormick’s transition.
For McCormick, the role offers an opportunity to stay engaged in football and his lengthy playing career could offer a unique perspective when evaluating college talent. Not every scout has played college football, and McCormick will have a little bit over double the experience.