Defensive lineman Jihad Ward may not have made many headlines when he signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, but he earned his paycheck. Signed to a one-year, $1.79 million contract, Ward gave the Vikings an interior pass rush and one of the more unique personalities in the locker room.
Ward played 504 snaps in 2024 for the Vikings. But despite being labeled as an edge, he split time lining up on the interior of the defensive line. 274 of his snaps came inside, and his versatility helped him register 31 pressures, tied for third on the team, according to Pro Football Focus.
What does a new contract in 2025 look like for Ward, who will turn 31 in May? Over the Cap’s valuation has him set for a $2.197 million contract. Would the Vikings be willing to give him that?
Fellow EDGE rusher Pat Jones II is also set for free agency. But at 26 years old, he may be looking for a larger contract with more long-term security than the Vikings are willing to offer. That could mean bringing back Ward on a cheaper contract. And the Vikings don’t seem to shy away from age if it comes at a discount.
The Vikings already have Pro Bowlers Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel starting at edge. 2024 first-round pick Dallas Turner will be looking to come off the bench and improve in his second season. Ward could be the “do-it-all” utility knife again who does the dirty work to help free up his fellow pass rushers.