Edge defender who needs to prove himself as run defender, but he could earn early reps as a nickel rush option. Ximines played as an even front end, but 3-4 teams could still have him on their radar depending on his athletic testing. His fully furnished repertoire of rush tactics could get him a look on Day 2 (Rounds 2-3) and give him a good chance to become an eventual starter in either a 4-3 or 3-4.
The frame, length and athleticism are all worthy of creating some excitement as a late-round "diamond in the rough" project, but the lack of impact production against modest competition feels telling as his NFL future is concerned. The traits are there and the pass rush flashes potential, but Ward's position in either the "untapped potential" or "looks better than he plays" columns could be determined early in his career.
