Draft Profile Series: Jimmie Ward
- Updated: April 23, 2014
As we approach the deepest NFL Draft in recent memory, I’ll give my breakdown and analysis of 75 top prospects in this year’s class. At the conclusion of this series, I will include my final overall and positional rankings, as well as my mock draft.
Jimmie Ward, S, 5-10½, 193, Northern Illinois
Key stats: Had seven interceptions in seven games in 2013. Had 299 tackles over past three seasons.
Strengths: Great overall instincts. … Quickly diagnoses play and gets to ball in a hurry. … Is also disciplined in not overrunning plays and is leery of cutbacks. … Lines up all over field and makes plays. … Good tackler, who stays low. … Wraps up well, but also is adept at cutting down runners when he has the proper angle. … Is well versed in both zone and man coverage schemes. Is scheme versatile. … Can play near line and deep. … Reads and reacts instantly and gets to the ball quickly. Redirects receivers and reads well in zone coverage. Has good ball skills and displays good timing and break when passes are in air. … Is valuable on special teams.
Weaknesses: Small for a strong safety. … Has a very slight build which could lead to injuries. … Although good in coverage, may struggle with bigger tight ends and receivers in NFL. … Will he be as effective around line when facing NFL savvy linemen, tight ends and fullbacks? … He is physical, but not an intimidating hitter. … Currently dealing with a foot injury. … Also has had some maturity issues.
Conclusion: I love Ward as a player. … One of the top playmakers at any position in this draft. … If he was 6-1 and 210 pounds he’d be the first safety taken and a top-10 pick. … I try not to get too caught up in his lack of size, although injuries could be a concern due to his small frame. … When it comes down to it, the guy consistently makes plays all over the field. … Is more instinctive than most safeties currently playing in the league. … Could play slot corner if needed as well. … In today’s NFL, with passes flying around at record rates, Ward’s skills really fit defenses more than they would’ve 20 years ago. If he takes care of business off the field, will find place on roster and become eventual play-making starter. Early on, will be a core special-teamer and contribute in sub-packages.
NFL comparison: Earl Thomas/Tyrann Mathieu.
Draft projection: Rounds 2-3.
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