How the NFL is impacting Florida State quarterback search, Cam Ward's decision

On Tuesday’s episode of the Andy Staples On3 Podcast, the college football expert brought in none other than NIL and transfer portal guru Pete Nakos to make sense of some of the top storylines going on within the sport. Nakos took the opportunity to address a previous conversation surrounding quarterback Cam Ward, who is still in the transfer portal.

When it comes to the topic of where the former Washington State star quarterback will play next season, On3’s transfer portal expert wanted to clarify a few things about Ward’s commitment timeline.

“So, I wanted to make a couple of things clear about Cam Ward from when I was on the show,” said Nakos. “I have not been very public about what a timetable could be for Cam Ward because I’ve heard everything from; he was gonna announce last Wednesday to this past Friday to Christmas Day. And now it’s Tuesday the 26th, and people are saying midweek this week, which could be tomorrow. I have no idea about the timetable. I’m not going to set one just because I don’t think there is one.”

In a previous appearance, Nakos revealed that the NFL was very much in play for Ward. There has been a limited amount of discussion surrounding his draft stock, unlike the likes of Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Jaylen Daniels. But the inconsistent play at quarterback this year in the NFL could make a jump to the next level more lucrative for Ward should he choose to declare for the 2024 Draft.

“January 15th, I believe, is the NFL draft cut-off. So, I think that is a date to watch. Now, if he commits in the next 48 hours, then he commits in the next 48 hours. But I don’t have the best feel for when a decision is coming. But in terms of Florida State, I think it’s Cam Ward, D.J. U (Uiagalelei). And then from there, I think that if Cams off the board and D.J. might be off the board, then I think Mike Norvell is going to have to really think for a second; if he wants to ride with the freshman and give him the experience or try to find a third option.”

There are two programs vying for Ward’s services: the Florida State Seminoles and Miami Hurricanes. And as Nakos highlights above, Florida State finds themselves in a precarious situation. Should they wait for Ward’s decision, they could find themselves losing out on another transfer portal quarterback they are closely monitoring, former Clemson Tigers and Oregon State Beavers’ D.J. Uiagalelei. And if that happens, plus Ward declares for the draft, the Seminoles could find themselves starting the 2024 season with an inexperienced signal caller under center.