Raiders add to defensive line with DE Jihad Ward

The Oakland Raiders have selected defensive end Jihad Ward out of Illinois in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, 44th overall.

Ward is a versatile talent that can play all over the defensive line and Oakland will have the option to use him at either end or tackle.

He impressed with 54 tackles last season and is a wide body that can stuff the run. Jack Del Rio and his defensive acumen should be able to get the most out of Ward's talents.

Jihad Ward Bio

Position: DT
School: Illinois
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-5
Weight: 297 lbs.

Strengths

• Can play outside or inside, using his raw athleticism to win against blockers.
• Possesses above-average athleticism for a man of his size, including impressive initial quickness, agility, and closing speed. (CBS Sports)
• Has room for even more muscle on his frame. (NFL.com)
• Great effort throughout the play and will continue his chase until whistle blows. (NFL.com)

Weaknesses

• Questions about the nastiness of his game linger for teams wanting to play him in the trenches.
• Relies on finesse moves to slip past blockers as opposed to technique or power.
• Below average at protecting against cut blocks. (NFL.com)
• Instincts very much a work in progress. (NFL.com)

Combine Results