A few paragraphs from the article
The schools bidding for Ward’s talents now are among the biggest names and most successful in the sport: Miami, Florida State, Southern California, Washington, Auburn and Ohio State. After finishing his finals and graduating on Dec. 9, he’s visited Miami and Florida State and may schedule more trips, his father said.
Those close to Ward say the quarterback won’t simply choose the highest bidder. He’s looking for the right scheme, a stout offensive line to protect him, athletic receivers to catch his passes and the chance to compete for a national title and contend for the Heisman Trophy.
None of which looked remotely in the cards when Ward went through his first recruiting cycle.
His parents say Ward is torn on whether to return to college or declare for the NFL Draft, where he is currently projected as a day-two pick. Not long ago, he would’ve had to jump to the pros to collect millions of dollars, but NIL has changed the game. Nebraska coach Matt Rhule said last month that top quarterbacks on the transfer market can fetch between $1 and $2 million, meaning Ward stands to cash in on endorsement deals that could hit seven figures if he picks a new college.
For now, Ward is keeping his options open. His third collegiate recruitment is somehow even crazier than the last one. This time, the zero-star recruit has his pick of five-star destinations.
“The word I’ll use,” his mother said,” is overwhelmed.”
