Robash Posted March 15, 2008 Share Posted March 15, 2008 March 14, 2008Ward rejoins crowded backfield Running back Derrick Ward, who missed the Giants’ Super Bowl run with a broken leg, has re-signed with the team. The 27-year-old Ward agreed to a one-year, $1.1 million contract that includes another million in incentives. He had been determined to test the open market after rushing for 602 yards last season to see if he could find more money or a better chance at a starting job. However, he found few interested teams. So instead, Ward returns to rejoin a very crowded backfield that includes Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw and Reuben Droughns. With the way Bradshaw emerged after Ward broke his leg at the end of his 154-yard day in Chicago, it remains to be seen exactly where Ward will fit in. That’s not something that will worry the Giants, though, given the fact that they needed all four backs last season. Ward was terrific early, averaging 88 yards in his first four games, which included three starts thanks to a knee injury to Brandon Jacobs. Injuries to his ankle and groin ended up shortening his season, though. He attempted to come back on Dec. 2 and was brilliant, carrying 24 times for 154 yards, only to break his leg late in the fourth quarter, which landed him on injured reserve. Ward’s deal would appear to leave the Giants with only about $7.5 to 8 million left to spent under the $116 million salary cap. Ward, in a statement released by the Giants, said he never wanted to leave the defending Super Bowl champs. “I had to keep my options open,” he said. “But my main goal was to stay here with the Giants. The Giants gave me my start. It feels good to come back to hopefully have a good year this year and be a part of the Super Bowl champion Giants. Hopefully, I’ll be able to finish my career here.” Said GM Jerry Reese: “We are glad to have Derrick back in our stable of running backs, which will create some real competition at that position. He brings a lot to the table as a runner, receiver, kick returner and cover specialist.” Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bronco Billy Posted March 15, 2008 Share Posted March 15, 2008 The Giants obviously have their Thunder & Lightening backfield in place, and Ward isn't in the mix. He's a nice piece of the puzzle to have for NY, but as far as FF he probably only has modest value for the Jacobs' owner as a handcuff and not much else. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Robash Posted March 15, 2008 Author Share Posted March 15, 2008 aye, being the Giants homer i am...i love this resigning. jacobs, ward, bradshaw, and droughns is more than most teams have. as a Ward dynasty owner...hate it Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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