Ward coughed up the ball 0 different times in his career. He rushed for 28.3 yds per game and scored 12 times while carrying the ball. He carried the ball 551 different times to the tune of 4.8 yards per attempt. In his pro football career, Ward played in 93 games and gained 2,628 yards carrying the ball.
Ward averaged 0.0 yds on the ground per contest. He rushed for 0 touchdowns in his final season for 0 yds. His average yds per carry was at 0.0 and he carried it 0 times in his final season. Ward ran for 0 yards on the ground in 0 games in his last season. Derrick Ward may not be a household name like some of the other greats in the NFL, but his journey through professional football is a testament to perseverance and talent. As a running back, Ward showcased skills and determination that earned him respect among teammates and fans alike. In this article, we’ll explore Derrick Ward’s NFL career, highlighting his achievements and contributions to the teams he played for.
Early Life and College Career
Derrick Ward was born on August 30, 1980, in Los Angeles, California. He demonstrated an early passion for football, which led him to pursue the sport throughout his high school years. After graduating, Ward attended Fresno State University, where he began his college football career. However, due to various circumstances, he transferred to Ottawa University in Kansas, where he continued to shine as a running back.
At Ottawa University, Ward excelled on the field, showcasing the talent that would eventually lead him to the NFL. He set records and was recognized for his outstanding performance in college football, making him a prospect for professional teams.
Entry into the NFL
Derrick Ward entered the NFL as a seventh-round draft pick in 2004, selected by the New York Jets. Although he was drafted late, Ward’s potential was undeniable. However, his early career was met with challenges. After being released by the Jets, Ward found an opportunity with the New York Giants, a move that would prove significant for his professional journey.
Rise with the New York Giants
Ward’s time with the Giants marked the beginning of a more stable and successful phase in his NFL career. He initially served as a backup running back, but his hard work and determination paid off as he climbed the ranks. Ward’s breakout season came in 2008 when he rushed for over 1,000 yards, forming a formidable backfield trio with Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, famously known as “Earth, Wind, and Fire.”
During his tenure with the Giants, Ward’s contributions were crucial to the team’s success. He played an essential role in helping the Giants secure a Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl XLII, where they defeated the New England Patriots in a memorable and dramatic game.
Derrick Ward’s Playing Style
As a running back, Derrick Ward was known for his speed, agility, and ability to break tackles. He was effective in both rushing and receiving, making him a versatile player on the field. Ward’s playing style was characterized by his quick decision-making and explosiveness, allowing him to capitalize on openings created by his offensive line.
Transition to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
In 2009, Derrick Ward signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a free agent. His transition to the Buccaneers was met with high expectations, as he was anticipated to be a key player in their offensive lineup. Although his time with the Buccaneers didn’t match the success he experienced with the Giants, Ward continued to display his skills and contributed to the team’s efforts.
Derrick Ward’s Career Achievements
Throughout his NFL career, Derrick Ward achieved several milestones and left a lasting impact on the teams he played for. Some of his notable achievements include:
Rushing for over 1,000 yards in the 2008 season with the New York Giants.
Contributing to the New York Giants’ victory in Super Bowl XLII.
Earning respect as a reliable and hardworking running back among his peers.
Life After the NFL
After retiring from professional football, Derrick Ward transitioned to a new chapter in his life. Like many former athletes, he explored various opportunities outside of the NFL. Ward has been involved in community work and has shared his experiences and insights from his football career through speaking engagements and media appearances.
Derrick Ward’s Legacy
Derrick Ward’s legacy in the NFL is defined by his resilience and determination to succeed despite the challenges he faced. His journey from a seventh-round draft pick to a Super Bowl champion serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes. Ward’s story reminds us that hard work, dedication, and perseverance can lead to success, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Conclusion
Derrick Ward’s NFL career may not have been filled with the accolades and fame of some of his contemporaries, but his contributions to the sport were significant. As a running back, he demonstrated the qualities that define a true athlete: skill, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Ward’s journey through the NFL is a testament to the power of determination and the impact of hard work on achieving one’s goals.
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or someone who appreciates stories of perseverance, Derrick Ward’s NFL career offers valuable lessons and insights. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes, proving that success in professional sports is not solely defined by fame, but by the effort and dedication one brings to the game.