Grade
?19 REPS
Top Performer
- 5'10" Height
- 30 3/4" Arm Length
- 211LBS. Weight
- 9 1/4" Hands
Overview
Ward was a two-year starter for the Ducks but has missed some time throughout his career with injuries. Lacks great height but has the strength, toughness, athleticism and instincts to play the safety position. Ward has shown some versatility in the secondary, playing on the perimeter as well as safety. He runs well, showing good range from center field as well as good lateral agility and quickness to navigate through traffic. He is a solid run-support player, keeping leverage in space and is a reliable tackler. He understands angles and is rarely out of position, anticipating break points well in the passing game. He doesn't have elite speed but shows enough athleticism to be effective off the hash as well as out of centerfield. Ward is a good football player who lacks height but should contribute on special teams, as well as providing valuable depth in his rookie season.
Analysis
Weaknesses
Ward lacks height and overall size. Can be out-muscled by bigger receivers and struggles to disengage from blockers in run support. Does not have the explosion and ball skills to be a true centerfielder. There are questions about his durability after two major knee surgeries.
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| Grade | Title | Draft (Round) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 96-100 | Future Hall of Famer | Top Pick | A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played |
| 85-95 | Immediate Starter | 1st | An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter). |
| 70-84 | Eventual Starter | 2nd-3rd | A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position. |
| 50-69 | Draftable Player | 4th-7th | A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential. |
| 20-49 | Free Agent | UDFA | A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body. |
