Several media outlets are reporting about the staggering name, image and likeness numbers that are expected for Washington State transfer quarterback Cam Ward. As expected, Ward is expected to command seven figures for any NIL deal that he signs with his next program. Ward visits the Miami football program on Tuesday.
Chris Hummer of 247 Sports posted on X that he doesn't expect Ward to take any more visits after he visited Florida State on Thursday. Bruce Feldman of The Athletic stated he expects Ohio State to be in the mix for Ward. It would appear at this point that Ohio State would be a longshot for Ward without hosting him for a visit.
In addition to the visit from Ward on Tuesday, Miami also hosted Kansas State transfer QB Will Howard. If Ward signs with another program, Miami could sign Howard. Several reports have Ward's NIL valuation at $1.5 million. The On3 valuation for Ward is $1.1 million. The On3 valuation for Howard is $995,000.
Bruce Feldman of The Athletic and Fox Sports College Football analyst Brock Huard are among the pundits who have opined on the NIL deals that Ward will command. Ward has created a lot of attention on the open market. Ward is ranked as the top QB transfer by On3 and third by 247 Sports.
"“Let’s just say I heard from one source, and a pretty dialed in one, that Cam Ward has 10 seven-figure deals waiting for him," Huard said. "He has 10 different deals from around the country that will pay him seven figures to come be their quarterback.”Brock Huard
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Feldman discussed the recruitment of Ward and the numbers he will command during an appearance on the Rich Eisen Show on Thursday. Feldman is a Miami alum, longtime college football analyst and sideline reporter for Fox Sports. The options for Ward and his potential earnings were discussed by Feldman with Eisen.
"“The quarterback market is crazy right now...Probably the biggest name in there now is Cameron Ward...Some of the things we’re hearing is, if you want to be in the Cam Ward market, you may have to pay $1.5 million. He’s a guy who could go to the NFL, but I don’t think he would be one of those top guys right now. I mean, he’s got good size, can extend plays, and got a quick release, but he’s been a little inconsistent...He’s visiting Miami right now."Bruce Feldman
The NFL has reportedly been a possibility for Ward but seems unlikely. Florida State and Miami are the prohibitive leaders to land Ward. On3 favors Miami to receive a commitment from Ward. A report from CaneSport stated that Ward is going to take his time making a decision. Miami might have to be patient.