A Strong Safety May Be More Important For Chiefs In Draft
By Ben Nielsen
Nov 20, 2013; Toledo, OH, USA; Northern Illinois Huskies safety Jimmie
Ward(15) warms up before the game against the Toledo Rockets at Glass Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
JIMMIE WARD
HEIGHT: 5-11 WEIGHT: 193 COLLEGE: Northern Illinois
40 TIME: 4.47 BENCH: 9 3-CONE: 6.89
Jimmie Ward shows the speed and physical nature the Chiefs are trying to add to their defense. Note his impressive 40 and 3-cone times as indicators of the athleticism John Dorsey seems to covet.
One issue with Ward is he is undersized. While he barely makes the height requirements the Chiefs have in the secondary, his weight is probably the most concerning issues. Is he strong enough for his physical style of play to translate to the NFL? How durable will he be in the NFL? Will he lose his quickness and speed if he adds weight?
If the Chiefs think Ward can be the physical player he is in college at the NFL level and will keep the same quickness and speed with an extra 10-15 pounds added onto his frame, then Ward may be the kind of guy the Chiefs are looking for at safety.
"Intense, active and energetic. Zooms around the field and stands out on tape. Aggressive run supporter — triggers quickly, flies downhill and chops down ball carriers. Breaks on throws and shows short-area burst to close. Has quick hands to snatch interceptions. Confident and energetic. Experienced and productive."
CBS considers Ward to be a second round prospect.