In the latest mock draft published by Sports Illustrated’s MMQB, Albert Breer has the Washington Redskins selecting Ohio State cornerback Denzel Ward.
In 11 games in 2017, Ward recorded 37 tackles, two interceptions and 15 pass breakups for the Buckeyes. He was a consensus All-American, making the Associated Press’s first team, and is considered the top cornerback in the draft class.
“Ward’s size knocks him down the board a little bit, with the league-wide trend being towards bigger corners,” Breer wrote. “He’s too good to resist as a replacement for Kendall Fuller here.”
Ward measured at 5-foot-10, 191 pounds at the scouting combine and ran a 4.32 40-yard dash.
Analysis:
The Redskins just signed Orlando Scandrick, who likely will fill in at nickel corner. Washington still has Josh Norman, too, but with Bashaud Breeland departing via free agency, there is a hole at cornerback that Ward could fill.
In saying his size “knocks him down the board a little bit,” Breer alluded to the fact that Ward has been projected as a top-10 pick in many other mock drafts. In reality, he might not be available to the Redskins at No. 13. Vita Vea and Calvin Ridley were among the other players on the board for Washington vin this mock.
• Adam Zielonka can be reached at azielonka@washingtontimes.com.
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