Texans New Safety Jimmie Ward Ranks How High on PFF '30' List?

HOUSTON — The Houston Texans had a successful off-season when revamping their subpar roster. They added several free agents who can enhance their on-field production, headlined by veteran tight end Dalton Schultz and running back Devin Singletary.

But when it comes to the free agent acquisition of safety Jimmie Ward, Pro Football Focus believes the Texans added the 27th-best player who is 30 years old or older.

Pro Football Focus described Ward as a player who has excelled in coverage and run defense since 2019.

Ward had his share of struggles at the start of his career. But ironically, the 31-year-old defensive back began to improve after coach DeMeco Ryans took over for Robert Saleh as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers.

Following a two-year stint, the Texans hired Ryans as their sixth coach in franchise history in late January. And four months later, Ward credited Ryans for his decision to join the Texans as a free agent.

"I just watched him and Coach Kyle’s [Shanahan] relationship in San Fran and when he got that defensive coordinator job, he stepped right into the shoes," Ward said. "He had some pretty big shoes to fill because [Robert] Saleh was a pretty good defensive coordinator too.

"He stepped right in and we didn’t lose a beat. I think we actually got better. Now, it’s his first time being a head coach and I feel like he’s going to do an amazing job."

While helping the 49ers reach the NFC Championship game, Ward recorded 50 tackles, five pass deflections and three interceptions during the 2022 season. He recorded a run-defensive grade of 91.8 and 69.3 in pass coverage, per Pro Football Focus.

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