Coach Prime and his team are experiencing several ups and downs in their NFL journey. As new players join, some familiar faces are also bidding farewell. Deion’s notable safety, Rodrick Ward, is also on the list, as he has no intentions of returning to Colorado.

The Buffs’ defensive back has announced his name for the 2024 NFL Draft after making a huge impact during his brief time in Boulder. Ward, who transferred to CU following two seasons at Southern Utah, emerged as a “threat player” under Deion Sanders’ guidance. His on-field contributions last season were impressive, tallying 52 total tackles, 2 pass deflections, and a forced fumble. Not just that, his performance during the recent Pro Day filled Deion with excitement. He praised Ward’s talents and actively connected him with other teams, which could lead to an exciting future opportunity.

Coach Prime is pushing to get this defensive back on the field

A recent video featuring Coach Prime has garnered attention as he was all praises for Rodrick Ward. Coach Prime stressed Ward’s potential: “This is a good brother. Came to us last year and worked this bottom of the charts.” The head coach proudly noted Ward’s progress and added, “Came and worked his way up and started it towards the end of the season.” He also advocated for Ward’s chance to shine in the NFL. “NFL, all he needs is an opportunity…everybody we just want opportunity that’s all we want,” Deion said. 

Where Does Osu Still Lack Elite Talent?

Let Tony do the scouting, you just make the pick.

Pick your positions. Get Tony’s top 5:

QB

RB

FB

WR

TE

C

CB

DE

DT

G

ILB

OLB

P

PK

S

T

View Tony’s Picks

Ward’s achievements include an impressive 4.47 40-yard dash time during his Pro Day, which Deion also highlighted. According to Deion Sanders, Ward is a great man from a great family who is sure enough to excel as a potential player. These positive words from Coach Prime have attracted the attention of Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers, who have invited him to participate in their Pro Day workout.

Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers have extended a Pro Day invitation to Ward

At Colorado’s Pro Day, Rodrick Ward outperformed many with a 4.47-second 40-yard dash, a 35.5″ vertical jump, and a 10’6″ broad jump. He is also quite a “heavy safety” at 5-foot-11 and 183 pounds. If he had been invited to the NFL Scouting Combine, Ward would have ranked fourth in bench press reps and broad jump. Also, he could likely be in the Top 6 in the 40-yard dash among safeties.

Read More: After Boulder Economy Racks Up $17M, Coach Prime Unveils “No-Visit” Recruiting Method Formulated to Drive Colorado’s Growth

Coach Prime’s words were not just an acknowledgment of his skills. But it’s a huge endorsement, further boosting Ward’s draft prospects. Now, Rodrick Ward has received an invitation from Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers to their Pro Day workout on March 29. It seems like amidst financial constraints and team-building, Harbaugh and his team see potential in Ward for the future. They might even take the opportunity to measure their “potential prospect” in the defense line. What are your thoughts on this move by Jim Harbaugh’s team? Let us know in the comments below. 

Read More: Jim Harbaugh & Co. Eyeing a U-Turn Move for Mike Williams After Exposing WR Struggles With Keenan Allen’s Release