Texans See DB Jimmie Ward As 'Vital' Free Agent Signing
HOUSTON — Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans has helped several players develop during his two-year stint as the defensive coordinator with the San Francisco 49ers. One of the players who took a step in their development is defensive back, Jimmie Ward.
Ward became a crucial member of the 49ers' defensive success.
And after signing a two-year contract to join the Texans, Ryans believes Ward will have the same impact in Houston.
"To be able to get a guy like Jimmie Ward is very vital for our defense," Ryans said. "Jimmie is a guy, I feel can play safety in our scheme. He's played nickel. Jimmie is a veteran guy who's played a lot of football. Jimmie is still playing football at a high level. So, to add a safety who can make dynamic plays for us was very vital."
Ward is coming off one of the most impressive campaigns of his career. He helped the 49ers to a 13-4 record during the 2022 season, where Ward recorded 50 combined tackles, five pass breakups and three interceptions through 12 games.
The Texans' defensive backfield will receive a major upgrade due to the addition of Ward. But Ryans also believes the acquisition of Ward will be beneficial to Houston's young corps as a veteran leader within the locker room.
"Jimmie is a veteran guy who's played a lot of football," Ryans said. "With the younger guys that we have, we have a very young group, a young nucleus of players who are talented. I feel like Jimmie can come in and just help those guys, aside from the football aspect but also just off the field, just how to be a true pro.
"That's what Jimmie provides and brings to those guys, and excited to get a guy who can do it and the leadership role he can provide off the field, and on the field."
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