Auburn football is actively considering quarterback options in the transfer portal, with Washington State’s Cameron Ward emerging as a top target. The Auburn Villager’s Chris Mendoza reports that Ward, currently the third-ranked quarterback in the transfer portal, may be seeking a substantial NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal, possibly reaching seven figures, to finalize his decision. Another quarterback, Riley Leonard, who transferred from Duke with a no-contact tag, is likely headed to Notre Dame, making Ward the primary focus for Auburn.
Cameron Ward, ranking third in the transfer portal, is known for his impressive 2023 season statistics, including being fifth in the nation for passing yards (3,735), 25 touchdown passes, and eight rushing touchdowns. While Riley Leonard’s move to Notre Dame appears imminent, Ward’s recruitment remains open and discreet.
In the quarterback room, Auburn is expected to lose Robby Ashford and Holden Geriner to the transfer portal, as per Mendoza’s projections. Despite receiving praise from Coach Hugh Freeze, both Ashford and Geriner had limited playing time towards the end of the season, with Payton Thorne securing the starting position. The departure of Ashford and Geriner would necessitate finding a solid backup for Thorne, potentially challenging the Michigan State transfer for the starting role.
Mendoza highlights potential reasons for the quarterbacks’ departure, suggesting Ashford faced midseason issues behind the scenes, while Geriner, not having played for two years, may be seeking opportunities elsewhere. Both Ashford and Geriner were recruited by Bryan Harsin, and their potential departure reflects a desire to explore options outside a program now led by someone who did not recruit them.
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