NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State University
Denzel Ward isn’t your big strong or tall corner. But that isn’t what Ward does best, Ward uses his length to generate pass breakups. Ward has a very good change of direction ability to keep up with the receiver in coverage. His combination of quickness and flexibility with his hips makes it tough for receivers to create separation.
Ward is better at man coverage, Some like Joshua Jackson the big physical corner from Iowa. He’s better in the zone, it’ll depend on who you like and how your defensive schemes. Ward could be better at turning his head around to locate the ball. With him struggling to turn his head has hurt him a little but it’s something that can be fixed before his NFL pro debut when the games really matter.
Ward as very good speed. So I can see him keeping up with some of the faster wide receivers in the NFL. Being on the short side for a corner is only 5 foot 10 inches he does hold very good ball skills. He is a very hard worker who prepares very well on the field and in the film room. One skill-set he holds that every top corner holds is fluid hips and quick feet. I can see Ward being like Chris Harris of the Denver Broncos.
Ward will need to work on getting a little more physical. That’s the biggest difference between him and last years best corner Lattimore. But Ward could be every bit as good as Lattimore in the NFL. Or possibly even better.
This scouting report was put together by Cody Ladue. Follow him on Twitter!
NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at nfldraftdiamonds@gmail.com