Outside linebacker Jihad Ward could always count on defensive coordinator Wink Martindale for a job. But Martindale resigned from his post with the New York Giants in January to take the defensive coordinator's role at Michigan, so Ward, an unrestricted free agent, signed with the Minnesota Vikings.
Ward played in 34 games for the Giants, with 20 starts, over his two years in blue. He recorded 67 tackles, eight sacks (including a career-high five last season), 22 quarterback pressures, and four pass breakups. However, his 118.8 coverage rating matched his career high, first set in 2019.
Ward joined the Giants after stints in Baltimore with Martindale and Jacksonville.
The Giants acquired Boogie Basham at the end of training camp last year. Basham's skillset is similar to Ward's. New York is also retaining outside linebacker Benton Whitley on a unit that includes Kayvon Thibodeaux, Brian Burns, and Azeez Ojulari.
More must-reads: