Mario Cristobal explains what made Cam Ward a good fit at Miami

At one point, it looked like Cam Ward was heading to the NFL. The former Washington State star initially entered the transfer portal, but announced his plans to declare for the NFL Draft to take his skills to the next level.

As Ward got feedback, though, he decided another year of college would be the best route for his NFL hopes. That led him to Miami – and Mario Cristobal said he’s fitting in well so far.

Ward arrives in Coral Gables as the No. 8 overall player in the On3 Industry Transfer Rankings following two seasons at Washington State. He put up big numbers at Wazzu, including 3,736 passing yards this past season. Cristobal said Ward’s big-play ability jumps out right away, but he’s also noticing the way he’s carrying himself around the facilities.

“There’s a lot of things,” Cristobal told J.D. PicKell on The Hard Count. “I mean, he’s an explosive player who’s a great leader. He’s got a great presence about him, he’s been in big games, big situations, tough situations. Has been overmatched personnel-wise and still finds a way to create some dynamic explosive plays, manage a game, make a lot out of a little sometimes. And at the same time, he’s very goal driven. He’s very intent on helping Miami become a prominent football program once again.

“And he does not shy away from competition. You saw, we have a young quarterback room that’s talented, and we had another portal quarterback as well in Reese [Poffenbarger]. Those two guys have approached this the right kind of way where it’s you’ve got to go out there and you’ve got to be your best and you’ve got to compete for it.”

Ward started his college career at Incarnate Word before back-to-back 3,000-yard seasons at Washington State. As he not only looks to improve his draft stock, he’s also looking to win – and Cristobal said that mentality is crucial as Miami tries to build off last year’s 7-6 campaign.

So far, he’s off to a good start. And Mario Cristobal said the hype is sure to keep building with spring ball quickly approaching.

“Cam has not disappointed, man,” Cristobal said. “He has been awesome as a leader. He has been awesome as a competitor. We have our fourth-quarter drills out there man and he’s trying to win. He’s trying to win all the reps.

“So all in all, really fired up that he’s here. I think you’ll enjoy watching him this spring.”