There’s a low-key standout in this year’s NFL Draft who’s been flying under the radar while top-tier names dominate the spotlight. Despite the buzz around higher-profile prospects, this former Ohio State quarterback has a college resume that speaks volumes—over 8,500 passing yards in his career, leading the nation in completions, attempts, and passing yards last season, and finishing in the top 10 in Heisman voting. Oh, and he led Syracuse to 10 wins, a rarity for a program not known as a football juggernaut. Still, NFL scouts have overlooked him—until now.
Kyle McCord, now on the cusp of the draft, recently opened up about his departure from Ohio State in a conversation with Rich Eisen. When asked whether he felt he was made a scapegoat, McCord didn’t directly say yes, but acknowledged the pressure and expectations within a top-tier program. Referring to the Buckeyes’ third straight loss to Michigan, he said, “Obviously, if we win that game, there’s a good chance I’m a Buckeye in 2024.” He emphasized how outcomes in a single game can shift everything at a school where only a national championship is considered success.
That loss to Michigan wasn’t just another mark in the “L” column—it triggered major internal changes at Ohio State. Once positioned as the next in line for greatness, McCord suddenly found himself pushed out. “They felt like changes needed to be made,” he said, recognizing that his exit was part of the program’s reaction to high-stakes expectations. He admitted transferring wasn’t easy, but believes it ultimately benefited both him and the Buckeyes. “It’s one of those rare cases in the transfer portal where both sides benefit,” McCord noted.
McCord’s move to Syracuse wasn’t just a change of scenery—it was a career reset that paid off. He thrived in the ACC, guiding the Orange to a double-digit win season that continues to generate intrigue in NFL circles. One veteran scout broke it down, emphasizing how important it is to look beyond stats when evaluating quarterbacks: “It’s the whole package… and how he handles adversity as much as anything.”
That adversity? McCord lived it. Once a five-star recruit, he played well at Ohio State, only to become the subject of criticism after a single loss. Then he turned around and did what few expected—winning 10 games at Syracuse. That achievement alone speaks volumes. A decade ago, it would’ve seemed improbable.
But the real turning point came when McCord led Syracuse to a season-ending victory over Miami, dashing the Hurricanes’ playoff hopes. That performance wasn’t just impressive on paper—it was the kind of game that makes NFL scouts take notice. Under pressure, in a spotlight moment, McCord delivered.
When asked about that critical showdown with Cam Ward and Miami, McCord kept it cool. “I wouldn’t say I outperformed him… but our offense made just enough plays to win.” It was a massive moment for both teams, and McCord knew it. “The biggest game of the year for them and for us as well,” he said.
He emphasized that the win reinforced his pitch to NFL teams—that he can show up in big games and make things happen. “Being able to win… kind of stamped what I was telling teams—that I have the ability to go out and win those big games and be able to put up points.” That final statement served as a quiet mic drop on an impressive turnaround season.