Pete Thamel: Multiple prominent transfer quarterback dominoes could soon fall
Pete Thamel joined ESPN’s College GameDay show on Saturday to give the latest on where some transfer portal quarterback dominoes could soon fall.
First, Thamel dropped some news regarding what’s going through the mind of former Washington State quarterback Cam Ward right now. He’s arguably the most coveted quarterback in the portal, and his decision could have a ripple effect on the rest of the available options.
“Some significant dominoes are expected to fall in the upcoming days for some of these coveted quarterbacks,” Thamel explained. “Everything starts with Cam Ward, the former Washington State quarterback. He’s expected to pick in the upcoming days between Miami, Florida State and the NFL.
“Ward was supposed to pick by Christmas, now he’s saying he’s going to pick by New Years. He’s expected to command a seven-figure NIL deal, which makes college a more likely destination than the NFL, a likely third-day pick.”
Ward spent two seasons on The Palouse after transferring in from Division II’s Incarnate Word. He started 25 games for the Cougars where he passed for more than 6,400 yards and 43 touchdowns while adding 11 more scores on the ground.
While Ward is a fascinating name to keep an eye on, his decision will directly impact that of former Clemson and Oregon State quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, Thamel reported.
“Ward’s decision is going to impact DJ Uiagalelei,” the ESPN analyst added. “The former Clemson and Oregon State star took a visit to Florida State. He’s still expected to choose between the Seminoles and the NFL.
“His physical traits and his production make him a strong NFL candidate, but he could slide into FSU if Ward does not go there.”
During his lone season in Corvallis, Uiagalelei managed to throw for 2,638 yards and 21 touchdowns, against just seven interceptions — which was just shy of his 2022 touchdown total. His career totals have seen him responsible for 8,319 yards passing and 57 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,132 yards and 21 scores.
Alas, the final name Thamel touched upon was former Kansas State star Will Howard. The smoke regarding him landing at USC has seemingly died down a bit, but Thamel believes the college football world should keep an eye on him ending up at Ohio State.
“You mentioned Will Howard. The Kansas State transfer quarterback is also going to pick in the coming days,” Thamel stated. “He’s visited Miami (and) USC. He’s also considering the NFL. Sources have told ESPN that Ohio State could emerge as a potential destination.
“The Buckeyes wanted to clear the bowl game before looking at transfer quarterbacks. Don’t be surprised in the upcoming days if the Buckeyes and Howard heat up.”
In four seasons with the Wildcats, Howard completed 59 percent of his passes while throwing for close to 5,800 yards and 48 touchdowns. He served as a part-time starter in 2022 and took over as the Wildcats’ QB1 in 2023, leading them to an 8-4 record before electing to enter the portal.
As you can see, there’s a ton of quarterback talent in the transfer portal at the moment, but the next week or so could see them knowing where they’re playing in 2024. The college football world awaits their decision.