Ballard Drafted by Vikings

April 30, 2011

Ballard Drafted by the Vikings

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IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa defensive lineman Christian Ballard was selected by Minnesota with the ninth pick of the fourth round of the NFL Draft on Saturday (106th overall).

The 6-foot-5, 297-pounder from Lawrence, Kan., is the 41st Hawkeye drafted during the Kirk Ferentz era.

Ballard was named honorable mention all-Big Ten by coaches and media after compiling 43 tackles (five for a loss) and three sacks for the 8-5 Hawkeyes. He is the second UI player chosen in this year’s draft, following fellow defensive lineman Adrian Clayborn, who was selected by Tampa Bay in the first round Thursday.

The Vikings, members of the NFC North, were 6-10 last season. Ballard has the versatility to play both defensive end and defensive tackle in the Vikings’ 4-3 scheme. He could join the rotation at left defensive end if Ray Edwards leaves via free agency and he could also slide inside to defensive tackle should a need arise there (Kevin Williams suspension).

Ballard joins a Minnesota team that also includes former Hawkeyes Chad Greenway (linebacker) and Albert Young (running back).

With Ballard on the field from 2007-10, the Hawkeyes compiled a record of 34-17 with victories in the Outback, Orange and Insight bowls in three consecutive seasons. Iowa was fifth in scoring defense in 2008 (13 points per game), sixth in rushing defense in 2010 (101.54 yards per game) and 10th in total defense in 2009 (276.54 yards per game). The Hawkeyes finished in the NCAA top 10 six times in various defensive categories since 2008.

During his career, Ballard made 152 tackles with 12 ½ sacks.