In news that will come as little surprise, the New York Giants are expected to re-sign defensive lineman Jihad Ward to a one-year deal.
ESPN Jordan Raanan was the first to report the transaction, although Ward himself had previously implied a deal was coming.
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
See y’all soon 🤝
— HADDY (@JIHADWARD17) March 16, 2023
The outspoken and often very loud Ward was a favorite among his teammates in 2022. He has also long been a favorite of defensive coordinator Wink Martindale.
“He’s a physical, tough guy that is the character of what you’re looking for as a defensive player,” Martindale told reporters last season. “He sets the pace, especially in the run game on setting the edges, and he (takes) it personal … and that’s what has made him who he is. And wherever I’m at, I hope I have Jihad Ward with me.”
Uncle Wink, as Ward calls him, got his wish.
In 17 games with the Giants last season (11 starts), Ward recorded a career-high 43 tackles (28 solo, 7 for a loss), 13 QB hits, 3.0 sacks, two forced fumbles, and four passes defensed.
Ward is loved in both the locker room and the stands, and has established himself as true blue across the board. He returns to where he belongs.
