Chicago Bears draft prospects: Players who may be steals

Jihad Ward (6-foot-5, 300 pounds), DE, Illinois

Our first look will be in the Chicago Bears’ backyard. Ward was a junior college transfer who was an anchor on the Illini defense.

There was not much to look at with Illinois’ team, but Ward was one of the positives.

In 2015, Ward had 54 tackles (3.5 tackles for loss), 1.5 sacks and two pass breakups.

It is hard to imagine, but when Ward started his career in junior college, he was a wide receiver and safety. He brings that athleticism to his position.

Ward has the body you want for a defensive lineman. He has broad shoulders and long arms, and he has speed and athleticism. He can set the edge and keep containment against the run.

Ward has some versatility. He also played inside at defensive tackle. You know defensive coordinator Vic Fangio would love moving him around.

As I mentioned earlier, Ward recently switched to his position. Playing there for just four years, he is still learning. He will need to refine his technique. He will have a big upside for whatever team drafts him, though.

This draft is deep with defensive ends, so Ward does not get the attention that others have gotten. He did turn some heads during Senior Bowl week, and he may start turning heads at the Combine.

Ward has started getting attention recently by showing off his athleticism. There is a video released of him dunking a basketball. You don’t see many defensive lineman doing that. He will be fun to watch,

Next: This guy can bench press a house!