The Minnesota Vikings have recently added former New York Giants outside linebacker Jihad Ward to their roster. Ward’s spirited play style, reminiscent of John Randle, promises to excite fans, especially considering his past interactions with Aaron Rodgers. During last year’s “Hard Knocks” series, which focused on Rodgers during his initial offseason with the New York Jets, Ward was seen nudging Rodgers after a throw in a preseason game, sparking a reaction from the quarterback.
Ward later clarified that his action was in response to a joke made by Rodgers about a previous play involving a blindside block by Randall Cobb.
#Giants LB Jihad Ward, who was the subject of the viral Hard Knocks clip with Aaron Rodgers, says that the reason it all started is Rodgers and the rest of the #Jets laughed off a "dirty hit" by Randall Cobb
Said it was "sucker stuff" (@Connor_J_Hughes)pic.twitter.com/5xJpRpeTQg https://t.co/TsCzFegd1Q
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 30, 2023
The signing on March 20 marks Ward’s seventh team since being drafted in the second round from Illinois in 2016. Known for his lively personality and on-field antics against opposing quarterbacks, Ward also brings a strong presence to the locker room.
Ward’s impact extends beyond his behavior on the field. Described as “loud” and “obnoxious” yet beloved by his teammates, Ward earned respect in the Giants’ locker room when he joined the team in 2022. Standing at 6-foot-5 and nearly 300 pounds, Ward’s physical prowess was evident when he helped contain Derrick Henry in a game against the Tennessee Titans, limiting the running back to 82 yards on 21 carries. Coaches and teammates alike praise Ward’s dedication to strong run defense and his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial games.
Jihad Wards smoked Kirk and Ed Ingram whiffed badly 😭 pic.twitter.com/Z0a7cKYeRI
— Footballzone (@UReady4Football) March 20, 2024
During his time with the Baltimore Ravens under defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, Ward continued to showcase his value as a formidable defensive player. Martindale emphasized Ward’s toughness and leadership qualities, highlighting his contributions to the team’s success.
In the past two seasons, Ward has started 21 games and played in all 36 possible games, including postseason matchups. He has accumulated impressive statistics, including 8.0 sacks, 13 tackles for a loss, four pass defenses, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
Looking ahead, Ward is expected to excel in a situational role, particularly against power-running offenses like the Titans. While his career pressure rates as a pass rusher have been below 10%, Ward’s size and strength make him an asset as an interior pass rusher and situational run defender.
Despite the presence of faster, finessed outside linebackers on the Vikings roster, Ward’s experience and leadership fill a void left by departing players like Jordan Hicks and Danielle Hunter.
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