A Look at the Oakland Raiders Defense for 2016

Jihad Ward

Jihad Ward didn’t look like a great prospect coming out because he played out of position. Most 300-pounders don’t look good or put up big numbers coming off the edge. But the Raiders saw the gifts he has and see him as great prospect as a 3-technique and 5-technique.

Afterall, he had to have done something right to get double-teamed so much in college. He’s only been a defensive lineman for a couple of years now so he as much to learn. His length, strength and athleticism will be quite a combination for opposing offensive linemen to face once he does.

And to go with the athleticism he has, he has a tremendous motor that doesn’t stop no matter what. He rushes the passer, peels back, and makes the tackle 30 yards down the field on the same play. Of all the d-line prospects in this draft, he’s one that I can say never stops hustling.

That combination of athleticism and relentlessness will take any player pretty far eventually. And the Raiders are betting that d-line coach Jethro Franklin will get him there sooner than later. He’s also a hard worker and they usually take to coaching quickly so this can happen this year.

Next: Mario Edwards Jr.