The Raiders added depth to their defensive line Friday by selecting defensive Jihad Ward from Illinois with the No. 44 overall pick.
The 6-foot-6, 295-pound Ward is considered a versatile lineman who can play both ends spots and kick inside to tackle as well. ESPN reported after his selection that Ward may need arthroscopic knee surgery that could sideline him for six weeks.
Ward played two seasons at Illinois who was a two-time All-Big Ten selection after transferring from a junior college.