Derrick Ward, a former NFL running back who celebrated his Super Bowl triumph with the New York Giants, found himself in legal trouble this Monday in Los Angeles, as indicated by online jail records.
The arrest transpired around noon local time, culminating in his booking at the Valley Jail in Van Nuys at approximately 6:30 p.m. Ward’s bail was set at $250,000.
According to TMZ, Ward stands accused of participating in a series of robberies throughout the city, allegedly employing force to extract money from various establishments, including gas stations.
The 43-year-old athlete commenced his professional football journey as a seventh-round pick for the New York Jets in the 2004 draft, originating from Fresno State and later transferring to Ottawa University in Kansas. Although initially cut by the Jets before playing a game, Ward went on to spend five notable years with the Giants. During this tenure, he formed a formidable running back trio known as “Earth, Wind and Fire,” alongside Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw.
In the memorable 2007 season, this dynamic running back corps played a pivotal role in propelling the Giants to the Super Bowl victory, stunning the undefeated New England Patriots led by Tom Brady.
After his successful stint with the Giants, Ward joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2009, following a stellar 2008 season where he ran for over 1,000 yards and led the league in yards per attempt (5.6). He concluded his NFL career with the Houston Texans in 2010 and 2011, officially retiring from professional football in 2012.
Ward’s football legacy encompasses 2,628 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns over the course of his career. However, his recent arrest has shifted the spotlight from his achievements on the field to legal challenges off the field.
