In an uncommon move, Miami tight end Cam McCormick has chosen to extend his collegiate football career into a ninth season, bypassing any professional aspirations for at least another year. Originally a member of the Oregon Ducks, McCormick’s journey is a story of resilience in the face of repeated adversity.
McCormick, once a top tight-end prospect from Bend, Oregon, and originally from Mesa, Arizona, faced his first major setback with a leg injury during his senior year of high school.
This began a series of challenges that would define his collegiate career. In 2016, he redshirted, followed by a promising start in 2017 with six receptions and a touchdown. However, the tide turned in 2018 with another season-ending leg injury.
Injuries continued to plague McCormick, causing him to miss the 2019 season entirely. The 2020 season, disrupted by COVID-19, didn’t count against players’ eligibility, but McCormick was sidelined again. Despite these setbacks, he made a significant comeback in 2022, playing in all 13 games and earning the FWAA-Orange Bowl Courage Award.
His tenure at Oregon, spanning from 2016 to 2022, overlapped with some of the most significant changes in college football, including the Transfer Portal, NIL era, and the 4-game redshirt rule. His career also coincided with key milestones in the sport, such as Nick Saban’s championship runs and Kirby Smart’s rise at Georgia.
Following his transfer to Miami in 2023, McCormick saw limited action but remained determined. He made a name for himself in early games with stellar blocking. His decision to return for a ninth season is unprecedented in college football history. McCormick’s journey, stretching over nearly a decade, is a story of persistence and adaptability, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of college sports. As he prepares for another season, the sports world watches with anticipation, wondering if this unique saga might even extend into a tenth year.
“I love my teammates, my coaches, and the University of Miami,” McCormick said in a release. “Despite the challenges, I want to finish what we started together. The bond we share is everlasting and makes it all worthwhile.”