Miami Hurricanes 2026 quarterback commit Dereon Coleman commanded attention at the recent OT7 event, not only for his impressive arm strength but also for wearing the jersey of former Hurricanes star Cam Ward.
The gesture from one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the 2026 class highlighted both his respect for the program’s recent success and his aspirations to follow in Ward’s footsteps.
Miami 2026 QB Commit Dereon Coleman Honors Cam Ward While Showcasing Elite Passing Skills
The Orlando, Florida-area Jones High School star recently caught attention after a video on social media displayed his cannon arm. The X post shared by Victory+ shows Coleman wearing a Miami Hurricanes jersey with Ward’s name and number during the showcase event.
The tribute came as Coleman prepares to join the Hurricanes for his college career. By donning Ward’s jersey, he demonstrated respect for the former team leader while signaling his own championship ambitions. Miami’s rich quarterback tradition provides Coleman with an ideal environment to develop his considerable talents.
Coleman, who threw for 3,412 yards and 28 touchdowns during his junior season while adding 455 rushing yards, represents a dynamic dual-threat option. Recruiting analysts have praised his velocity, accuracy on the run, and ability to process defenses quickly.
His OT7 performance showcased these attributes while generating significant buzz among Hurricanes fans.
Miami QB commit Dereon Coleman shows off the arm while repping No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick Cam Ward’s @CanesFootball jersey 🔥 pic.twitter.com/CQ1TJBScEh
— Victory+ (@victoryplustv) June 29, 2025
Ward established a remarkable foundation for Coleman to build upon during his lone season in Coral Gables. After throwing for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns, Ward was selected No. 1 overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2025 NFL Draft.
His ability to deliver under pressure and provide leadership in crucial moments elevated his draft stock throughout the season while positioning him as Tennessee’s franchise cornerstone.
The former Washington State transfer’s impact proved undeniable, guiding the Hurricanes to a 10-3 record and a Pop-Tarts Bowl appearance. Ward also became the third Hurricane to capture the 2024 Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award, cementing his place in program history.
His departure to the NFL created both a void and an opportunity for emerging talent like Coleman.
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With Ward now pursuing his NFL career, Coleman enters a quarterback room seeking its next leader. His OT7 showcase served as both a skills demonstration and a window into his competitive mindset. The performance revealed a player who is focused, confident, and already embracing Miami’s storied quarterback tradition.
The Hurricanes have consistently produced elite quarterbacks throughout their history, from Jim Kelly and Vinny Testaverde to Ken Dorsey and, most recently, Ward. Coleman’s decision to honor Ward through his jersey choice signals his readiness to continue that championship legacy while forging his own path to success.
