Given the multiple personnel packages we see from NFL defensive coordinators, Ward is a fit at the next level because of the versatility he brings to the secondary.
With speed in the high 4.4 range, coverage ability and ball skills (11 career interceptions), Ward can roll down over the slot, drop to the deep middle of the field or play in the run front where he can chop down ball-carriers.
Plus, Ward can align underneath in the defensive sub-packages as a nickel or dime defender in both man and zone schemes to give coordinators more flexibility in the game plan.
He is quick with his hands in press, physical on the release and displays the lateral ability/closing speed to attack the football as a zone defender.
There are questions on Ward’s size (5’11”, 193 lbs) and the level of competition he saw in the MAC Conference. However, after watching the NIU product compete in the Senior Bowl, there is no question he stacks up versus top talent.
I graded out Ward behind Alabama’s Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Louisville’s Calvin Pryor, but don’t be surprised if he is drafted in the first round next Thursday night.
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