It's been two years since the Fighting Illini have had a player selected in the NFL Draft, but Jihad Ward is poised to end that streak. Despite having played only two seasons in Champaign after transferring from a junior college, Ward showcased tantalizing ability from the defensive line, and the big man figures to be an early pick when the festivities get underway Thursday in Chicago.
Measurables:
Height/Weight: 6-foot-5, 297 lbs.
Projected NFL position: 3-4 defensive end, possibly 3-technique defensive tackle
College Stats:
2014: 50 tackles, 8.5 TFL, 3.