Carson Beck, who served as Georgia’s starting quarterback for two seasons, has announced his transfer to the University of Miami. This decision follows his initial declaration for the 2025 NFL Draft, which he reconsidered due to a recent elbow injury that required surgery.
Beck’s transfer to Miami is influenced by several factors. Notably, his girlfriend, Hanna Cavinder, is a member of the Hurricanes’ basketball team. Additionally, Miami’s football program recently saw their starting quarterback, Cam Ward, depart for the NFL Draft, creating an opportunity for Beck to step into a leading role. During his tenure at Georgia, Beck amassed impressive statistics, including 7,912 passing yards and 58 touchdowns, achieving a 24-3 record as a starter.
Beck’s injury, a UCL tear in his right elbow sustained during the SEC Championship game, necessitated surgery and impacted his draft prospects. He is expected to recover fully and begin throwing by spring 2025, making him available for the upcoming college football season, which will be his final year of eligibility.
Financial considerations also played a role in Beck’s decision. Reports indicate that he has secured a $4 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Miami, placing him among the top earners in college football. This substantial deal underscores the growing influence of NIL agreements in collegiate athletics, offering athletes lucrative opportunities that can rival professional contracts.
Georgia’s head coach, Kirby Smart, addressed Beck’s departure, noting that while Beck’s decision influenced the team’s strategy in the transfer portal, it did not impact their high school recruiting efforts. Smart expressed confidence in the remaining quarterbacks on Georgia’s roster, including Gunner Stockton and incoming freshman Ryan Puglisi, and indicated that the team would explore options to add depth to the quarterback position.
Beck’s move to Miami is anticipated to have a significant impact on the Hurricanes’ performance in the upcoming season. His experience and proven track record are expected to bolster Miami’s offense, with aspirations of contending for a spot in the college football playoffs. Beck’s decision also highlights the evolving landscape of college athletics, where NIL deals and personal considerations are increasingly influencing player movements and career trajectories.