New York Giants running back Derrick Ward cashed in on his 1,025-yard season by reaching a four-year, $17 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to a league source.
Though many football people believed he would be going to the Cleveland Browns in free agency, Ward made a visit to the Bucs that convinced him to cancel his other trips. Over the weekend, Ward made a quick visit to the Broncos. He had also been in conversations with the Giants about re-signing.
Basically, the Bucs gave him an offer he couldn't refuse.
In the first year alone, the league source indicated Ward would earn $6 million guaranteed. He'll make $9.25 million over the first two years and $13 million over the first three.
The 228-pound Ward is a power back with plenty of impact. He averaged 5.6 yards per carry. What's more amazing is that he gained 1,025 yards last year even though he only started three games.
In 2007, Ward rushed for 602 yards on 125 caries and had three touchdowns.
Senior writer John Clayton covers the NFL for ESPN.com.
_______________________
Does this mean that the Buc's are done with either Ernest Graham or Caddilac Williams? Either one would be an awesome pickup.
