The New York Giants have released veteran outside linebacker Jihad Ward just three games after they poached him off the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad. The news was first reported by NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo.
Ward tied his career high with 5.0 sacks last season while playing for the Tennessee Titans, where current Giants defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson had that job.
When the Giants needed a replacement on the roster for Brian Burns, out with the season due to a torn ACL, they signed the 32-year-old Ward. He was on the active roster for three games, playing in two. In 41 defensive snaps, Ward had just one tackle.
Ward was also a Giant in 2022 and 2023. He was a second-round pick by the Raiders in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Releasing Ward could be the precursor to adding outside linebacker Trace Ford to the 53-man roster. Ford, 25, is out of practice squad elevations after playing in the Giants’ last three games. In 49 defensive snaps, Ford has eight tackles. He has also played 78 special teams snaps.
