At this point it appears the only part of cam wards game we fixed is he's no longer a gunslinger...........

https://www.nfl.com/prospects/cam-ward/32005741-5206-5305-364b-76c1f988f45e

Analysis

By Lance Zierlein

NFL Analyst

Draft Projection

Round 1

Overview

Gunslinger with good size, a big arm and the mobility to help out his offensive line. Ward can read the full field and operates with average decision-making and processing quickness. Like a shortstop, he rips sidearm rockets that fit into tight windows on all three levels, but his delivery and mechanics cause inconsistencies with placement and accuracy. He is fairly consistent regardless of the coverage scheme he sees, but figuring out disguised coverage on the pro level will take time, and it is not a given he will develop that skill. He looks to strike it rich with aggressive, vertical throws; for better efficiency, he needs to learn to mine for gold with combo reads and rhythm throws. While he has the ability to move the sticks with his legs, he’s more of a pocket passer than a dual-threat quarterback. Pocket mobility helps him extend and make plays out of structure, but the longer he’s off-schedule, the spottier his decision-making can get. With a patient plan and a nurturing offensive coordinator who can accentuate his physical tools while regulating the feast-or-famine elements of his play, Ward could become a good NFL starter inside of his first contract.

Strengths

Recognizes pre-snap pressure and can protect himself.

Displays recognition for attacking holes in the coverage.

Sudden release helps him thrive with quick game and seam throws.

Can whip throws into tight windows from 25 yards away.

Release quickness and velocity limit defender’s reaction time to the throw.

Arm talent to make throws that others in this draft class cannot.

Alters trajectory and touch for bucket throws.

Mobility creates longer cover times and second-action opportunities.

Able to read the front side and get to the back side with his progression.

Bobs and weaves around the pocket and away from pressure points.

Capable runner when the pocket breaks down but doesn’t bolt unnecessarily.

Weaknesses

Too willing to work out of structure and play hero ball.

Struggled with Georgia Tech’s disguised coverages.

Needs eye discipline to prevent coverage overlaps against zone.

Inconsistent tying his feet with his eyes when scanning.

Gets excited and cuts it loose before the route develops.

Drop-down, sidearm release creates erratic placement.

Seam throws become a security blanket when he’s uncomfortable.

Unjustifiable interceptions from reckless cross-field throws.

NFL QB-hunters will make him pay for reckless backward scrambles.

Rears back and rips throws when touch and finesse is needed.

Completed just 39% of his passes inside the red zone in 2024, per Pro Football Focus.