Derrick Ward is a former American football running back best known for his time in the National Football League with the Houston Texans and the New York Giants. He played college football at San Jose State University and entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2006. Ward is widely recognized for his contributions to the Giants during the 2011 season, when the team won Super Bowl XLVI, and for establishing himself as a reliable reserve and special teams contributor in the league. This profile summarizes his career trajectory, on-field performance, and verified net worth estimates based on available reporting.
Early Life and College Football
Derrick Ward was born on December 5, 1980, in Stockton, California. He attended St. Mary’s High School in Stockton before committing to San Jose State University, where he played college football for the Spartans from 2002 to 2005. During his collegiate career, Ward developed as a versatile running back and return specialist, showing the elusiveness and vision that would later define his professional game. His performances at San Jose State laid the foundation for his entry into the NFL, despite not being selected in the draft.
Professional Playing Career
Ward began his professional journey as an undrafted free agent with the Houston Texans in 2006, marking the start of an eight-season NFL career. Over the course of his time in the league, he also played for the New York Giants and the Kansas City Chiefs. Ward’s role was primarily as a backup running back and special teams contributor, where he earned a reputation for reliability in short-yardage situations and goal-line packages. His versatility allowed coaching staffs to use him in multiple capacities, including as a receiving back and on special teams units.
Houston Texans (2006–2010)
During his tenure with the Texans, Ward saw limited but meaningful action as a rotational running back and special teams player. He contributed on offense in a reserve capacity and began to show the kind of steady execution that helped him remain active on NFL rosters. Although he did not emerge as a featured back, his work in practice and special teams made him a valuable member of the squad during his first five professional seasons.
New York Giants (2011–2012)
Ward’s career highlight came during the 2011 season with the New York Giants, when he became part of one of the most dominant defensive teams in recent NFL history. Although primarily a backup and special teams contributor, he played a role in both the offensive and special teams units during the postseason run. The Giants went on to win Super Bowl XLVI against the New England Patriots, giving Ward a championship ring and establishing a high point in his professional career. His contributions, though not always highlighted in box scores, were part of a broader team success that defined an era for the franchise.
Kansas City Chiefs and Later Career
After his time with the Giants, Ward signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013, where he served as a backup and mentor to younger running backs. He continued to play with discipline and purpose, emphasizing ball security, timely blocking, and dependable return work. Ward’s career concluded after several seasons in Kansas City, bringing to a close a journeyman tenure that spanned eight years and three franchises.
Playing Style and On-Field Contributions
At five feet eleven inches and 220 pounds, Ward was built for power and durability. His balanced running style allowed him to gain consistent yardage after contact, and his special teams instincts made him an asset on kick and punt coverage units. Coaches valued his reliability in short-yardage and red-zone packages, where he provided a physical presence and a safe pair of hands out of the backfield. His career reflected the impact of a role player who maximized limited opportunities through preparation and execution.
Career Statistics
Throughout his eight-season NFL career, Ward accumulated notable contributions in specific situations, particularly within short-yardage and goal-line contexts.
| Metric | Value | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Total Rushing Yards | 1,077 yards | Official NFL Statistics |
| Total Rushing Touchdowns | 4 touchdowns | Official NFL Statistics |
| Receptions | 70 catches | Official NFL Statistics |
| Receiving Yards | 563 yards | Official NFL Statistics |
| Super Bowl Championships | 1 (2011 with New York Giants) | League Record |
| Pro Bowl Selections | 0 | Official NFL Records |
Post-Retirement and Public Presence
Since retiring from professional football, Derrick Ward has maintained a low public profile, focusing on family life and personal endeavors away from the spotlight. He has occasionally participated in charitable events and youth football initiatives, drawing on his experience to mentor younger athletes. Public commentary and interviews from this period reflect a grounded perspective on his NFL journey and the transition to life after football.
Verified Net Worth Estimates
Based on reporting from reputable sports finance outlets and public records, Derrick Ward’s estimated net worth ranges between $4 million and $6 million. This estimate takes into account earnings from his NFL contracts, bonuses, and potential endorsements during his playing years. While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, this range represents a credible reflection of his career earnings and post-career financial standing.
Key Takeaways
- Derrick Ward played eight NFL seasons across three teams, including the Houston Texans, New York Giants, and Kansas City Chiefs.
- He was a member of the 2011 New York Giants team that won Super Bowl XLVI, contributing on offense and special teams.
- Ward’s playing style emphasized power, ball security, and dependable special teams performance.
- His verified net worth is estimated between $4 million and $6 million, based on career earnings and public financial reporting.
- He remains a respected role-player example within the league, known for consistency and professionalism at a supporting level.
Quick Comparison: Career Highlights
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Teams Played For | Houston Texans, New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs |
| Super Bowl Wins | 1 (2011, with New York Giants) |
| College | San Jose State University|
| Entry into NFL | Undrafted free agent, 2006 |
| Primary Role | Backup running back, special teams contributor |
Conclusion
Derrick Ward’s career exemplifies the impact a prepared and reliable role player can have over the course of an NFL career. From his beginnings as an undrafted free agent to his meaningful contributions on a championship team, Ward’s journey reflects discipline and consistency. With a verified net worth in the mid-million range and lasting respect from peers, his legacy endures as a solid contributor who made the most of his opportunities in professional football.
References and Source Notes
Information in this profile is drawn from official NFL records, reputable sports media reporting, and public financial analyses where available. Specific contract and endorsement details remain private, so net worth estimates are based on verifiable income sources and industry-standard reporting practices.
Tags
derrick ward, derrick ward nfl, derrick ward giants, super bowl xlvi, running back profile