The NFL has placed Houston Texans’ safety Jimmie Ward on the commissioner exempt list following two arrests in June and August. The 34-year-old player faces a felony domestic violence charge from the June arrest, where he allegedly choked and threatened a woman. Ward was also arrested again in August for violating his bail agreement on that charge. Players on the commissioner exempt list are prohibited from attending practices or games, with the duration determined by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Ward, who entered his third season with the Texans and the 12th of his career, had previously faced a foot injury that led to his placement on the physically unable to perform list. The NFL’s decision comes as Ward faces additional legal challenges, including a $20 million civil lawsuit from the mother of his 3-year-old son, who claims he assaulted her while under the influence of crystal meth. The lawsuit is being represented by Tony Buzbee, a prominent attorney in high-profile domestic violence cases. Ward’s attorney, Steve Jackson, stated that the lawsuit was previously filed and dismissed in Montgomery County. The case has drawn significant media attention, with the NFL and team representatives remaining largely silent on the matter.
The Texans have stated they are gathering information and have no further comment. The team is preparing for Ward’s absence, with C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Calen Bullock set to start at safety. The incident has raised questions about the NFL’s handling of player conduct and its impact on team dynamics. This is not the first time Ward has faced legal issues, with his previous arrests contributing to the current situation. The league’s decision to place him on the commissioner exempt list reflects the seriousness of the allegations and the potential consequences for his career. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the NFL’s response to player conduct and the broader implications for the league’s image and standards.
Critics argue that the NFL’s handling of such cases is inconsistent, with some players receiving leniency while others face severe consequences. This case has prompted discussions about the need for clearer policies to address domestic violence and other criminal behavior among athletes. The league’s approach will likely influence future decisions regarding player conduct and the balance between protecting players’ rights and maintaining the integrity of the game.
Meanwhile, the Texans are navigating the challenges of replacing Ward, whose absence may affect their defensive strategy. The team’s response to the situation will be closely watched, as it could impact their performance in the upcoming season. The NFL’s decision to place Ward on the commissioner exempt list underscores the league’s commitment to addressing such incidents, though the effectiveness of this approach remains a topic of debate among fans and analysts.