NFL Roster Changes
Giants Sign Defensive Lineman Jihad Ward From Vikings Practice Squad
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Key Points
1
Ward has appeared in 136 regular-season games, starting 49, and recorded 199 tackles, 24 sacks and three forced fumbles; he also played in six postseason games.
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The Giants must pay Ward for at least three weeks after signing him from Minnesota’s practice squad, even if they release him sooner; players are not required to accept such a move.
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Ward’s return to the Giants has drawn attention because previous comments he made about defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson have resurfaced.
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Audric Estime joined Minnesota’s practice squad a day after working out for the team and a week after the Saints released him with an injury settlement; he had been placed on injured reserve with a thigh injury.
The New York Giants signed veteran defensive lineman Jihad Ward off the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad to their active 53-man roster on September 30, 2026. The move gives the 10-year veteran a secure roster spot and marks his second stint with New York. Meanwhile, Minnesota added former Saints running backs Audric Estime and Devin Neal to its practice squad, restructuring its backfield after injuries hit the team.
Ward's departure leaves a hole in Minnesota's edge rush depth, but the Giants gain immediate experience to replace injured starter Brian Burns. The signings highlight how NFL practice squad moves can quickly reshape rosters mid-season. ESPN reported Ward chose to accept the Giants' guaranteed three-week contract over staying with Minnesota.
Giants Land Ward to Replace Brian Burns
The New York Giants urgently needed pass-rush depth after starter Brian Burns suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Jihad Ward, a 10-year veteran with 136 regular-season games and 24 career sacks, provides immediate rotation behind edge rushers Kayvon Thibodeaux and Abdul Carter. Ward's prior experience with the Giants (2022–2023) and familiarity with defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson's system made him an attractive fit.
Under NFL rules, the Giants must pay Ward at least three weeks of base salary after signing him from Minnesota's practice squad—even if they release him sooner. Players retain the right to refuse such moves, but Ward accepted the offer. This guarantees him financial security and active-roster game time instead of remaining on Minnesota's taxi squad.
Ward's History With Aggressive Defensive Philosophy
Dennard Wilson, the Giants' defensive coordinator, coached Ward with the Tennessee Titans in 2025. Wilson is known for an intense, physical approach to defense. According to previous statements, Wilson told players: "I\'m not your f——g friend. I\'m here to do a job... we are going to play... violent defense" — a philosophy Ward has experienced firsthand.
Ward previously characterized Wilson's coaching style as uncompromising. The defensive coordinator's approach—emphasizing physical, aggressive coverage—aligns with Ward's 10 years of versatile linebacker and defensive line work across multiple NFL teams. This prior connection likely influenced the Giants' interest in signing him quickly.
Vikings Revamp Running Back Depth After Injuries
Minnesota faced backfield shortages after placing running back Jordan Mason on injured reserve, prompting the Vikings to work out available talent. The team signed former Saints backs Audric Estime and Devin Neal to its practice squad on September 30, 2026. Both are 23-year-old draft picks who provide between-the-tackles run-blocking depth.
Audric Estime set Notre Dame's single-season rushing touchdown record in 2023 with 18 TDs and 1,341 yards. In the NFL, he has posted 122 carries, 508 yards, and 3 touchdowns. Devin Neal signed a 4-year rookie deal in 2025 and recorded 206 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns in 10 games with New Orleans. Both young runners will back Aaron Jones and DeeJay Dallas until Jordan Mason is eligible to return after Week 6.
Saints Lose Backfield Depth to Practice Squad Rival
New Orleans faced surprise criticism after releasing Audric Estime and allowing Devin Neal to land on a rival practice squad in one fell swoop. The Saints waived Estime from injured reserve on September 22 with an injury settlement following a thigh issue. Neal had been with New Orleans but did not generate enough depth-chart separation to stay on the 53-man roster.
The dual departures leave New Orleans' backfield thin behind Alvin Kamara and Kendre Miller. Both Estime and Neal represented young, dynamic talent the Saints developed in 2025. Their addition to Minnesota's practice squad signals how quickly promising prospects can shift between rosters during the regular season when injury backups are needed.
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