The 2023 NFL season is having one of the most crucial days in Week 15, as the playoff scenario might have a potential change following this week. While big teams like Dak Prescott’s Dallas Cowboys witnessed a blowout loss, some small teams are showcasing their caliber to potentially secure their playoff run after a disappointing start.
As the NFL 2023 season heats up, Week 15’s moments take an unexpected turn with the arrest of former football star Derrick Ward. Ward, whose journey from Riverside County to pivotal roles with some NFL teams made him a notable figure in football history, now finds himself in the spotlight for a different reason.
Who is Derrick Ward?
Derrick Ward’s football journey epitomizes perseverance, from his roots in Southern California to a crucial role in the New York Giants’ historic Super Bowl win in the 2007 season. The tale began in 2004, when Ward was selected by the New York Jets in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. However, fate had a different plan, and he was cut without having the chance to play a regular-season game. Nevertheless, his determination later led him to the New York Giants, where he donned the jersey from 2004 to 2008.
The veteran’s NFL expedition continued with stints at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2009 and the Houston Texans from 2010 to 2011. In 2009, the Bucs signed him to a notable four-year, $17 million contract. Despite the promising contract, he faced challenges by being cut the following year and subsequently finding a place with the Texans.
Throughout his 93-game NFL career, Ward showcased his talent with 2,628 rushing yards on 551 attempts while contributing 12 touchdowns. His impact extended beyond statistics, becoming a vital part of the NYG Super Bowl-winning squad that triumphed over Tom Brady’s undefeated New England Patriots in the 2007 season.
The memorable 17-14 Super Bowl win on February 3, 2008, etched the RB’s name in football history. Although he couldn’t play in the championship game due to a late-season leg injury, his dedication shone through as he bounced back in 2008 and achieved a career-high 1,025 rushing yards.
Derrick Ward’s arrest for several alleged horrible robberies
Derrick Ward has been arrested on felony charges related to multiple alleged robberies across the Los Angeles area. Authorities claim that the 6-foot, 230-pound individual utilized “force and fear” to carry out these acts and targeted various businesses, including gas stations, to obtain money.
Despite not brandishing a firearm during the reported incidents, police assert that the 43-year-old vet resorted to intimidation tactics to coerce businesses into surrendering funds, via CBS News.
On Monday, law enforcement detained the Los Angeles native, and he was subsequently booked around 6:30 p.m. According to Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department records, he was still in custody as of early Tuesday afternoon, with bail set at $250,000. It is still unclear at this moment whether he has secured legal representation for his defense, and his manager has not provided any comments on the situation.
This recent arrest adds to Derrick Ward’s history of alleged unlawful behavior. In 2017, he faced accusations of defrauding several acquaintances, allegedly manipulating them out of their money in a scam.
