By: Steve Johnson

Denzel Ward, CB Ohio St

5’10 7/8 183 31 1/4″ arms, 8 3/4″ hands

4.32 40, 39″ vert, 11’4″ broad jump

Stats/Accolades/History:

2015: 5 games. 7 tackles,

2016: 10 games. 23 tackles, 9 pass breakups

2017: 11 games. 37 tackles, 2 TFL, 2 int, 15 pass breakups

Misc. Stats: Blocked 2 kicks in career

Accolades: 2017 All-Americans, 2017 First-team All-Big Ten

Injuries:

History: Four-star recruit out, led his high school team to the Division II state championship game. He also competed in the 4×400-meter relay and as a long jumper.

Strengths: Elite athlete, ran a 4.32 40 and 136″ broad jump. Great footwork and loose hips. Excellent at locating the ball. Re-routes receivers well. Excellent recover speed. Well coached up, has good eyes. Aggressive tackler, not afraid to mix it up.

Weaknesses: Undersized and lacks strength. Might have issues matching up with some of the big receivers in the NFL. Only 2 career interceptions.

Overview: Ward is very gifted athletically. He has great footwork and recovery speed. His lack of height and strength might ultimately limit his outside ability. Gets bodied in blocking. Small hands and short arms.

Draft Projection: 1st Round

Phanaddict Draft Grade: 6.30