Giants re-sign RB Ward

Mar 14, 2008 - 9:53 PM EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (Ticker) -- The New York Giants brought an important cog to their running attack Friday, re-signing reserve running back Derrick Ward.

Terms of the contract were not disclosed, but the New York Daily News reported that the deal was for one year at $1.1 million. The paper also reported there could be incentives worth up to another $1 million.

"We are glad to have Derrick back in our stable of running backs, which will create some real competition at that position," Giants general manager Jerry Reese said. "He brings a lot to the table as a runner, receiver, kick returner and cover specialist."

The 5-11, 233-pound Ward rushed for 602 yards, the second-highest total on the team, while scoring three touchdowns. The Los Angeles native helped keep New York's running game going when starter Brandon Jacobs suffered injuries to his knee in September and hamstring in November.

However, Ward's season ended early when he suffered a broken left leg in the fourth quarter against the Chicago Bears on December 2. The injury came after he had rushed for a career-high 154 yards.

Ward was placed on injured reserve and missed the remainder of the regular season along with the Giants' four-game postseason title run.

"It was hard sitting out," Ward said. "It's been my dream since I was a little kid to play in the Super Bowl. I wasn't able to play in it because of my injury, but I felt I helped the team enough to get us there. It was a win-win situation for me."