The Houston Texans signed veteran running back Derrick Ward after visiting with the recently released RB on Friday, according to reports from NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora.

After five seasons with the New York Giants, Derrick Ward signed a four-year, $17 million deal as an unrestricted free agent with the Buccaneers in 2009.

Ward was a big-time playmaker as a 1,000-yard rusher two years ago with the Giants, but he struggled to make the transition in a new offense in Tampa Bay.

In a limited role as a backup for the revitalized Cadillac Williams, who was coming off a major knee surgery, Ward rushed for 409 yards and one touchdown, averaging a fairly solid 3.6 yards per carry last season. 

He was discharged on Tuesday after the Bucs trimmed its roster to 75 players.

Despite seeing decreased numbers in preseason, Texans fans should be optimistic of Ward’s arrival to Houston. 

With Steve Slaton and Jeremiah Johnson nursing toe injuries and rookie second-round-pick Ben Tate out for the season, the free agent pick-up could be a great addition for the Texans’ now bolstered backfield for 2010. 

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Verse of this Piece

“Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life.  Don’t use your mouth to tell lies; don’t ever say things that are not true.  Keep your eyes focused on what is right, and look straight ahead to what is good.” —Proverbs 4:23-25

My Dad’s Son has a written a verse with nearly every article since he began with his 50th piece.  This is just something small to illustrate his glory for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

He hopes this will inspire someone to speak out about their love for God, without fear, and perhaps one day start somewhat of a trend.  God Bless and Carpe Diem!

In the last three seasons, Ward has only started nine games.  In spite of this, he was valued as a solid backup, playing in 38 games under some premier talent.  In that time frame, Ward received 421 carries, rushing for 2,036 yards on the ground. 

It’s tough to say whether he’ll have a spot with the Texans next season as Tate returns, but I anticipate he’ll make the most of his time under the spotlight.

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