Former Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward has a strong message for NFL teams contemplating their draft choices: overlook him at your own peril. Ward faced criticism for sitting out the second half of Miami's Pop-Tarts Bowl loss against Iowa State, a decision he maintains was planned in advance. He argues that both he and the team gained valuable insights from the first half, which helped them identify areas for improvement. Ward's decision also factored in his personal future prospects.

Ward's message to NFL teams is clear: "If you don't draft me, it's on you. Just remember, you'll be facing me on the field throughout my career, and I won't forget it." He believes the decision to sit out the second half, while difficult, was the best course of action for both himself and the program. He also pointed out that other players made similar choices regarding their participation, prioritizing their future careers.

Miami coach Mario Cristobal has refuted the narrative that Ward abandoned his team, calling it "false." Ward, a prominent quarterback prospect in this year's draft, boasts impressive collegiate stats, including 18,189 passing yards and 158 touchdowns. He has received accolades such as the Manning Award and the Davey O'Brien Award.