Eagan, Minnesota – The Vikings on Saturday opened the final day of the 2023 NFL Draft by selecting LSU safety Jay Ward with the 134th overall pick.
Ward started 23 of the 46 games he played for the Tigers, totaling 164 tackles (109 solo), 3.5 tackles for loss, six interceptions, 17 assists and two forced fumbles.
He teamed with Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson and guard Ed Ingram on LSU’s squad for the 2019 CFP Championship as a true freshman.
Listed at 6-foot-1, 188 pounds, the Moultrie, Georgia native was a 3-star recruit from Colquitt County High School.
NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein wrote that Ward is a “versatile defensive back with a bold play mentality”.
“Ward has good size and height for a nickel cornerback, but lacks the small thickness as a safety he likes to hit. He can be relied upon to do his job backing up runs from the hole and has the talent of adequate outside man and area coverage.” “He’ll play when he’s in a position to but he doesn’t have the trajectory anticipation required for strong productions on the ball just yet. Ward takes good football angles in coverage and runs support as a safety. Chances of becoming an NFL regular in the future.”
Minnesota selected Ward after trading down 119th overall.
Vikings Season Ticket member Clayton Yan announced the selection from Banff National Park in Canada.
“Beer enthusiast. Subtly charming alcohol junkie. Wannabe internet buff. Typical pop culture lover.”
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