Chalk this up as another win for NY Giants general manager Joe Schoen. With the GM keeping busy in bringing in new players and re-signing guys, he’s done that once again by getting things across the line with a popular pass-rusher among the fanbase.
According to Giants insider Jordan Raanan, Schoen and Co. have agreed to terms on a new one-year deal with veteran outside linebacker Jihad Ward. Ward is coming off a strong campaign with Big Blue, as he’s known for making plays on the field, but also being a guy who brings so much joy for the players and coaches as well.
The Giants are re-signing veteran OLB Jihad Ward to a one-year deal, per source. A Wink Martindale favorite and locker room favorite. He had 43 tackles and 3.0 sacks last season.
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) March 16, 2023
NY Giants re-sign Jihad Ward to a one-year deal
Ward inked with the Giants last offseason, as he had previously played for the Jaguars, Ravens, Colts and Raiders. From the moment he arrived to town, Ward became a fan-favorite player, and he backed up his trash talk with solid play for defensive coordinator Wink Martindale and head man Brian Daboll.
Last season, Ward finished with 43 total tackles and three sacks. With him being out of contract, there was a lot of worry among NY supporters that he could end up leaving to go play elsewhere, but Schoen has locked in the new one-year contract for him. Ward made 11 starts for the G-Men in 2022, proving to provide incredible depth for the team.
While Kayvon Thibodeaux and Azeez Ojulari are the primary edge-rushers for this squad, Ward showcased that he was ready to step in and deliver for Daboll whenever his number was called. Now, more of the same will be on the way once the 2023 season gets underway.
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