Northern Illinois safety Jimmie Ward recently visited the Ravens

The Ravens recently hosted Northern Illinois safety Jimmie Ward for a visit, according to a report for The Baltimore Sun's Aaron Wilson.

Ward, a 5-11, 195-pound safety, has the kind of versatility the Ravens are looking for at the position. He was a strong safety in college but could transition into a free safety in the right system at the next level. Ward has a knack for making plays on the football, recording seven interceptions in 2013.

He had a four-game stretch — against Eastern Illinois, Purdue, Kent State and Akron from Sept. 21 to Oct. 12 — where he picked off a pass in each outing.

Ward has ascended up draft boards, beginning as a mid-round prospect. He's now considered a second-rounder, with the chance of popping into the first round. If the Ravens take someone at another position in the first round, they'd likely love to see Ward become available at the 48th overall spot.

There's always the chance the Ravens could trade back as well if they truly covet him.