Transfer Portal Quarterbacks: What Are Miami’s Options?

With Cam Ward taking his talents to the NFL, Mario Cristobaland Miami’s coaching staff are still searching for a proven Transfer Portal quarterback.

It’s probably best that this quarterback has one more year of eligibility. That way the Canes can continue to develop younger quarterbacks Jacurri Brown and Emory Williams for one more season before those two compete against each other in the spring of 2025.

Three Transfer Portal quarterbacks fit that criteria, but can the Canes sign one of the three?

The following is a baseline of the quarterbacks that seem to fit Miami’s needs and are in the Transfer Portal.

The more well-known name for fans would be former Kansas State quarterback Will Howard. He’s been rumored with Miami, Southern California, and Ohio State among others; he’s visited the Canes as well.

Howard has 5,786 yards and 48 touchdowns as a passer, and 921 yards and 19 touchdowns as a runner, for his college career. The next quarterback is certainly known for producing big plays.

The player would be Kaidon Salter from Liberty. Entering his name on the final day of the Transfer Portal window, Salter is a run-pass quarterback. In 2023 alone, his passing numbers include 2,876 yards and 32 touchdowns, plus rushing for 1,089 yards and 12 more touchdowns; he’s dynamic.

It’s a good bet that former Liberty head coach Hugh Freeze and Auburn will likely be involved for Salters’ signature. Miami should certainly make a phone call, too.

The third option would be former James Madison quarterback Jordan McCloud. He’s originally from Tampa so that does not hurt his cause either. McCloud threw for 3,657 yards and 35 touchdowns last season, as well as rushing for 276 yards and 8 more scores. His style of play resembles that of Salter.

Going by the quarterbacks that are in the Transfer Portal right now, those are the quarterbacks that provide a proven track record and should make an immediate impact. After Howard and Salter, Miami’s coaching staff would probably be taking a far greater risk than any other quarterback that would come to Coral Gables.

It’s going to be interesting to see what Miami can accomplish. The Canes need a proven quarterback for 2024.