Another former Kentucky football offensive coordinator heading to the NFL?

Oct 19, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Stoops argues a call with the referee against the Florida Gators during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Stoops argues a call with the referee against the Florida Gators during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images | Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

Shannon Dawson, the offensive coordinator at Miami and a former offensive coordinator under Mark Stoops at Kentucky, is rumored to be heading to the NFL along with standout quarterback Cam Ward. This bombshell comes from none other than Nevin Shapiro, the infamous former Miami Hurricanes booster. Known for his controversial past and deep connections in Florida sports circles, Shapiro claims to have insider knowledge on the move.

When asked whether the move is mere speculation or a certainty, Shapiro hinted strongly at the latter. “Get with me April 26th or 5th or whenever the draft is,” he said, cryptically referencing the NFL Draft dates and implying that the move is all but finalized to send both to the New York Giants. He believes Dion will not let his son Shedeur be a part of the Giants organization and that means the Giants will need to select another quarterback. Enter Cam Ward.

Dawson, who served as Kentucky’s offensive coordinator in 2015, struggled during his lone season under Stoops before being dismissed. After his exit, he rebuilt his career with stops at Southern Miss and Houston before landing at Miami. His tenure with the Hurricanes has been nothing short of transformative, earning him a semifinalist spot for the Broyles Award, given to the nation’s top assistant coach.

Cam Ward, one of college football’s most dynamic quarterbacks, could find an NFL pairing with Dawson irresistible. The connection between the two has been a key factor in Ward’s development, making this rumored move one to watch closely.

Nevin Shapiro’s involvement adds intrigue to the story. The former booster, infamous for his role in the University of Miami’s scandal during its early 2000s heyday, has been linked to numerous key figures in football. Known for his lavish spending and controversial tactics, Shapiro remains connected to influential figures in Florida sports and NFL front offices. His assertion lends weight to the speculation surrounding Dawson and Ward.

For Kentucky fans, the story adds to a growing narrative: coaches often thrive after leaving Stoops’ program. Dawson’s resurgence at Miami and potential leap to the NFL highlights a trend of assistants finding greater success once departing Lexington. If true, this move could further solidify his reputation as one of college football’s top offensive minds and make Stoops look worse all at the same time.

Remember for now, it is just a rumor from a booster, but one that is really connected. How would you, bbn, feel seeing another OC make the jump to the NFL after leaving Stoops?