Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal expressed excitement about landing No. 1 overall 2026 prospect Jackson Cantwell, further cementing his reputation as an elite recruiter. This success follows his recruitment of Cam Ward from the transfer portal, who became a Heisman Trophy finalist last season.
Ward was selected No. 1 overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2025 NFL Draft after a remarkable pre-draft rise.
After transferring to Miami from Washington State, Ward thrived under Cristobal and offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson, throwing for over 4,300 yards and 39 touchdowns while helping the Hurricanes to a 10-win season.
Despite Ward’s performance and eventual top selection, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders received more pre-draft media attention before falling to the fifth round. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. consistently projected Sanders as a first-round pick, often ahead of Ward in mock drafts.
Cristobal recently addressed this situation.
According to Action Network’s Brett McMurphy, Cristobal said he “spoke to a million people” during Ward’s pre-draft evaluation—including nearly every NFL team and national outlet—but never heard from Kiper.
“I can’t recall many NFL teams or TV people I didn’t speak to,” Cristobal said. “Never heard from him. I don’t think I’ve ever talked to him.”
Cristobal indicated he wasn’t personally bothered by Kiper overlooking Ward, but would only have been concerned if it affected his quarterback.
“The only reason I would be disappointed was if Cam was,” Cristobal said. “But knowing Cam, he just wanted to hear the name and exactly where he was going and get to work.”
Ward never seemed distracted by the debate, maintaining his focus on performance. That approach appears to have paid off as he begins his NFL career as the Titans’ franchise quarterback while Cristobal continues building his recruiting program in Coral Gables.
