Cade McNamara Transfers to East Tennessee State for Final College Season

IOWA CITY, Iowa — Former Michigan and Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara has committed to East Tennessee State University for his final year of college football. The announcement came Saturday, marking the next chapter in a career marked by both triumphs and setbacks.

McNamara, who began his college career at Michigan, led the Wolverines to a Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2021. However, injuries and inconsistent play have defined his recent years. After transferring to Iowa in 2023, McNamara struggled with injuries, including a torn ACL and a concussion, limiting his impact on the field.

In two seasons with the Hawkeyes, McNamara appeared in 13 games, throwing for 1,522 yards, 10 touchdowns, and eight interceptions with a 57.3% completion rate. Iowa’s offense ranked among the worst in the nation during his tenure, further complicating his efforts to regain his form.

McNamara announced his decision to enter the transfer portal in December, expressing gratitude for his time at Iowa. “My last two years at the University of Iowa have been an incredible journey,” he wrote on social media. “Through so many ups and downs, I couldn’t be more thankful for the amazing people and experiences I’ve had here.”

At East Tennessee State, McNamara will join an FCS program that finished the 2023 season ranked 29th in total offense (406.4 yards per game) and 47th in scoring offense (27.6 points per game). The 6-foot-1, 210-pound quarterback brings a career total of 4,700 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions to his new team.

McNamara’s journey began with a breakout performance at Michigan in 2020, where he replaced Joe Milton mid-game against Rutgers and led a double-digit comeback. He secured the starting job in 2021, completing 210 of 327 passes for 2,576 yards, 15 touchdowns, and six interceptions. However, his time at Iowa was marred by injuries and inconsistent play, culminating in his decision to transfer.

“I’m looking forward to this offseason, being the healthiest I’ve been in years, and continuing my growth as a player, leader, and person,” McNamara said. “I am excited to see where God takes my football journey next.”