5 first-year NY Giants who may not return in 2023

2. Pass-rusher Jihad Ward

Last offseason’s signing of Jihad Ward may have been this front office’s most underrated addition. In just one season with the Giants, Ward became the voice of the Giants locker room and played a key role on the field. But with how he produced in 2022, he could be due for a big payday. And this could lead to the two sides parting ways.

In his lone season with the Giants, Ward was a key playmaker along the defensive front. When Ojulari missed time with injury, Ward stepped into his role. He finished the regular season playing in all 17 games while earning 11 total starts. He recorded 43 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, 13 quarterback hits, three sacks, two forced fumbles, and four defended passes.

Ward played the best football of his career in 2022. He also seemed to have built a strong connection within the Giants organization. This could very well lead to the two sides reaching a new deal, and this defense would welcome his return.

At just 28 years old, he still has good football left and a team could be willing to offer him more money than the Giants. We’d love to have him back, but the Giants may not be able to afford him.