Miami TE Cam McCormick Granted Ninth Year of Eligibility, Returns for 2024 Season
Miami Hurricanes tight end Cam McCormick has been granted a ninth year of eligibility by the NCAA, allowing him to return for the 2024 college football season. McCormick, who began his career at Oregon in 2016, has overcome numerous injuries throughout his collegiate career, making his return all the more remarkable.
McCormick took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to announce his decision, stating, “the pursuit of excellence has no goal line,” and referring to the upcoming season as his “last ride.” The 25-year-old athlete expressed his gratitude for the support he has received, using the hashtags #84Resilient and #GoCanes.
In an interview with ESPN, McCormick reflected on his journey and the challenges he has faced. “I’m blessed that it was me to go through it because a lot of people would have folded under the pressure — both mentally and physically,” he said. “But it’s pushed me to be a better person and teammate — everything. I’ve learned so much from every year and everything I’ve had to overcome.”
McCormick’s football career began as a three-star prospect out of Bend, Oregon. He joined the Oregon Ducks in 2016 alongside notable players such as quarterback Justin Herbert, Nick Bosa, Ed Oliver, Rashan Gary, and Jalen Hurts, who have all gone on to establish themselves in the NFL.
However, McCormick’s path was not without obstacles. He redshirted in his freshman year and played as a reserve in 2017. Unfortunately, a broken leg in 2018 led to complications that kept him sidelined for the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Just two weeks into the 2021 season, he suffered a foot injury. Despite these setbacks, McCormick’s determination never wavered.
In 2022, McCormick finally had the opportunity to play a full season, appearing in all 13 games and making six starts. His perseverance earned him the Capital One Orange Bowl FWAA Courage Award. Ahead of the 2023 season, he was granted an eighth year of eligibility and transferred to the University of Miami, where he reunited with coach Mario Cristobal. McCormick contributed eight receptions for 62 yards during his time with the Hurricanes.
To secure his ninth year of eligibility, McCormick had to submit a waiver to the ACC, which was ultimately approved. He expressed his excitement about returning for another season, emphasizing his goal of playing in the NFL. “I want to say I gave it my best opportunity and best shot,” he stated.
Despite facing criticism from skeptics who believe he shouldn’t still be playing, McCormick remains unfazed. He refuses to let others’ opinions dictate his path and hopes that his story will inspire fellow athletes who are battling injuries. “I feel like my journey can help those that have to experience that,” he said. “It’s tough, but hopefully there’s some inspiration there, and guys who get injured can see my journey and dig deep within and keep pushing toward their goals and their future.”
Cam McCormick’s return for a ninth season of college football is a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination. As he prepares for his “last ride” with the Miami Hurricanes, he aims to leave a lasting impact both on and off the field.
