Giants Make Defensive Change After Giving Up 34 Points in Saints Loss

The New York Giants have released veteran linebacker Jihad Ward after just two appearances during his second stint with the franchise. NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo reported the move Tuesday, two days after New York surrendered 34 points in a loss to the New Orleans Saints.

Ward joined the Giants in late September after being signed off the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad. The 32-year-old was brought in to reinforce the defensive front following injuries to key players, including outside linebacker Brian Burns.

However, his latest run in New York produced limited results. Ward recorded one tackle across 41 defensive snaps and four special teams snaps in two games. The Giants have now decided to open a roster spot as they reassess their defensive options.

The move follows a frustrating afternoon against New Orleans. The Giants built an early 10-0 lead but ultimately lost 34-27 after allowing 34 unanswered points. Although New York mounted a late comeback, the defense struggled to contain the Saints during a decisive stretch.

Ward was not solely responsible for the team’s breakdown, but his release gives New York an opportunity to consider other options in the front seven.

Ward previously spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons with the Giants, appearing in 34 games and recording eight sacks during that period. He later played for the Minnesota Vikings and Tennessee Titans before returning to New York this fall.

Head coach John Harbaugh and the Giants’ coaching staff now face the challenge of improving a defense dealing with personnel losses. Finding reliable depth will be important as the team prepares for its next matchup against the Houston Texans.

For Harbaugh, the decision represents another roster adjustment during a demanding stretch. The Giants must improve their consistency on defense if they hope to turn narrow losses into wins and remain competitive in the NFC East.

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