The Raiders selected Jihad Ward with the No. 44 overall pick of Thursday’s NFL Draft. Here’s what you need to know about him.
College: Illinois
Position: Defensive end
Ht/Wt: 6-foot-6/295 pounds
College highlights: Two-time All-Big Ten honorable mention selection had 4.5 career sacks and 12 tackles for loss.
Pros: Raw prospect who has high upside thanks to his length and quickness. Good effort player who should be able to be part of the defensive line rotation.
Cons: Not much experience and hasn’t shown the nastiest needed to be a dominant lineman.