The New York Giants are releasing veteran linebacker Jihad Ward after just two games in his second stint with the franchise, according to reports published on October 20, 2026. The move comes as the Giants continue to adjust their defensive lineup following injuries to key players and disappointing performances on defense.
Ward returned to New York in late September after the Giants signed him off the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad. The team needed additional help along the defensive front after outside linebacker Brian Burns suffered a season-ending ACL injury. However, Ward struggled to make a significant impact during his brief return.
Jihad Ward’s Stats During His Second Giants Stint
Ward appeared in two games after joining the Giants’ active roster, recording just one tackle across 41 defensive snaps. His limited production ultimately contributed to the team’s decision to move in another direction as it searches for more effective defensive options.
The Giants had hoped Ward could provide valuable experience, versatility and depth to their defensive front. Despite his limited numbers, the veteran had previously demonstrated that he could contribute as both an edge defender and an interior defensive lineman.
His second stint in New York ended shortly after the team’s Week 6 matchup against the New Orleans Saints, a game that highlighted the Giants’ ongoing defensive struggles.
Why Did the Giants Release Jihad Ward?
The Giants signed Ward to address their defensive depth problems following Brian Burns’ season-ending ACL tear and defensive lineman Chauncey Golston’s placement on injured reserve with a neck injury.
New York initially released defensive tackle Josh Tupou to create room for Ward on the roster. The move reflected the team’s need for an experienced player capable of filling multiple roles along the defensive line.
However, Ward recorded only one tackle in his two appearances. With the Giants continuing to search for answers on defense, the organization reportedly decided to open a roster spot for another player.
The expected next step is to consider promoting linebacker Trace Ford from the practice squad. Ford has appeared in the Giants’ previous three games through practice squad elevations and has contributed on both defense and special teams.
Jihad Ward’s Previous Giants Career
Ward is no stranger to New York. He previously played for the Giants during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, appearing in 34 games and making 20 starts.
During that first stint, he recorded eight sacks and established himself as a versatile contributor who could line up at different positions along the defensive front. His size and experience made him a useful rotational option for the Giants.
The 6-foot-5, 285-pound defender entered the NFL after being selected by the Oakland Raiders in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Throughout his career, he has played for several franchises, including the Raiders, Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Baltimore Ravens, Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings and Giants.
His ability to move between interior defensive line assignments and edge-rushing responsibilities helped him remain a roster option across multiple teams.
Jihad Ward’s 2025 Season With the Titans
Ward’s most recent productive season came with the Tennessee Titans in 2025, when he recorded a career-high 5.0 sacks while playing under defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson.
That performance helped strengthen his reputation as a veteran defender capable of providing pressure and versatility. Wilson is now part of the Giants’ coaching staff, giving New York another reason to believe Ward could contribute after returning to the organization.
Ward also previously played under current Giants head coach John Harbaugh during his time with the Baltimore Ravens in 2019 and 2020.
Despite those coaching connections and his previous success, Ward was unable to reproduce his earlier impact during his brief return to New York.
Giants Continue Searching for Defensive Answers
The Giants’ decision to release Ward comes amid broader concerns about the team’s defensive performance, particularly against the run.
According to the supplied reports, New York allowed at least 120 rushing yards in four of its first six games. The Washington Commanders rushed for 202 yards, while the New Orleans Saints recorded 175 rushing yards in the Giants’ two most recent games.
Those numbers underline the challenges facing New York as it attempts to improve its defensive consistency.
The team has also been adjusting its personnel following Dexter Lawrence’s trade to the Cincinnati Bengals before the draft. Injuries to important defensive players have further complicated the process of establishing a reliable rotation.
The Giants have reportedly explored additional defensive line options, including tryouts for nose tackles Jahmeer Carter and Taki Taimani. However, the supplied reports did not confirm a signing involving either player.
What Is Next for Jihad Ward?
Ward’s release leaves the veteran defensive lineman looking for his next opportunity in the NFL. At 32, he brings considerable experience, positional flexibility and a history of contributing to multiple defensive schemes.
His career-high five sacks with Tennessee in 2025 demonstrate that he can still provide value in the right situation. Whether another team pursues him will depend on its defensive needs, available roster space and evaluation of his recent performances.
For the Giants, the immediate priority is finding dependable replacements and improving a defense that has struggled to consistently stop opposing offenses.
Final Thoughts
Jihad Ward‘s second stint with the New York Giants has ended after only two games. Although the veteran returned to provide depth following significant injuries, his one-tackle performance across 41 defensive snaps did not produce the impact the team needed.
The Giants are now expected to explore other roster options, with Trace Ford among the potential candidates for a larger role. As New York works to strengthen its defensive front, Ward’s release represents another adjustment in a season marked by injuries and personnel changes.
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