On May 11, 1994, Jihad Ward, a defensive end for the National Football League’s New York Giants, was born. He participated in collegiate football at Illinois.
When Ward graduated from college, most observers believed he would be picked in the second or third round. According to commentators, he can play both end positions in a 3-4 or 4-3 defense, is big enough to play defensive tackle in a 4-3 scheme, and might mature into an effective pass rusher in the NFL. He was also viewed as a developmental project who needed to improve his power and had uneven contact balance.
Ward attended Illinois’ Pro Day, was invited to the NFL scouting combine, and even outperformed most of his combined stats. All 32 clubs sent representatives and scouts to Illinois’ Pro Day, which was overseen by head coach Lovie Smith. Houston Texans, Cincinnati Bengals, and New England Patriots defensive line coaches all made special trips to see Ward play.
Where did Jihad Ward go to high school?
Ward attended Philadelphia’s Edward W. Bok Technical High School. He did not participate in football until his second year.
