"Reel him in": Dallas legend Jimmy Johnson compares Cam Ward to Caleb Williams ahead of 2025 NFL Draft
Cam Ward is having a standout season, leading the ESPN charts with an 87.2 QBR. The Miami Hurricanes QB has accumulated 3,774 passing yards, 34 touchdown passes, and only 7 interceptions. Under Ward’s leadership, the Hurricanes have won 10 out of 11 games this season, positioning him as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL draft.
NFL analyst Jimmy Johnson recently shared his thoughts on Cam Ward during an appearance on "The Herd with Colin Cowherd." Johnson expressed confidence in Ward’s potential as a top-two or top-three draft pick but also raised concerns about his playstyle. Comparing Ward to Caleb Williams, Johnson said:
“It’s Caleb Williams, you know, the same thing. You got to reel him in. You got to say, ‘Hey, you take your check down.’” [4:03]
The comparison stems from similar concerns surrounding Caleb Williams when he entered the NFL. He too had a lot of passing yards (3,633) but tended to hold the ball too long and miss opportunities, so Williams faced criticism for his high-risk decision-making. These tendencies are now being observed in Ward as well.
Also Read: Heisman contender Cam Ward touted to replace $25,000,000 NFL starting QB, per draft expert
Drafted in 2024 by the Chicago Bears as a top-10 pick, Williams threw for 2,356 yards and 11 touchdowns in his rookie season. Despite some growing pains, his talent is evident. Similarly, Cam Ward’s potential is clear, but his tendency to rely on off-platform throws and improvisational plays has drawn attention. Johnson explained:
“He makes some great plays by being off-platform and running around. But he also turns the ball over doing that. ... He can make the plays, he can make the right decisions, but as an offensive coach, you’ve got to reel him in. Keep him from making all those scrambles trying to make the great play. Just take what’s there.” [4:16]
Cam Ward aims for ACC Championship spot as Hurricanes travel to Syracuse
The Miami Hurricanes are set to face Syracuse in their final game of the regular season, with significant stakes on the line. A win in this matchup would secure Miami a spot in the ACC title game next week. However, a loss would end their hopes for a title race.
Quarterback Cam Ward emphasized the importance of preparation during an interview with "InsidetheU":
“For the defense, they probably have some guys back who were hurt in previous games, so, you know, we just gonna be prepared for what they do, gotta be able to see space, take advantage of leverage, you know, just, you know, try to win a football game.” (2:07)
Syracuse enters the game following a 31-24 win over the UConn Huskies. Playing at home, Syracuse holds a psychological advantage and will rely heavily on their standout performer, Kyle McCord. McCord is in strong form, having thrown for 470 yards in the previous game, including two touchdown passes, while completing 37 of 47 attempts.
Injury updates for Syracuse remain unclear, with the status of T. Pena, U. Hatcher, J. Reed, and C. Del Rio-Wilson yet to be confirmed. However, Justin Barron, Duce Chestnut, and Devin Grant, who started in the last game, are expected to be part of the lineup against Miami.