Ranking the Oakland Raiders Training Camp Roster: 40-31

Dec 24, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders nose tackle Denico Autry (96) sacks San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) for a safety in the fourth quarter during an NFL football game at O.co Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Chargers 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jun 15, 2016; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive lineman Jihad Ward (95) at minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

35. Jihad Ward

Ward may have been the most criticized Raiders draft selection, at least amongst the fanbase. As a high second-round pick, expectations will be fairly high for his rookie season.

With a stacked defensive line, Ward should have plenty of opportunity to shine in one on one situations, and make his presence felt. What stands out the most about Ward is his physical stature and his strength.

He is considered to be raw, but that may not be a bad thing with Jethro Franklin as the defensive line coach. Ward can be molded and crafted by Franklin, so there is plenty of reason to be optimistic at Ward’s future.

– Nick Hjeltness

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