Ward had one total tackle and a QB hit in Sunday's win over Houston.
Ward played on just nine of the defense's 67 snaps as he has a reserve safety role. He could get more playing time if the Vikings limit Harrison Smith's snaps later this season to keep him fresh.
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Vikings' Jay Ward: Headed to Minnesota
Rotowire
The Vikings selected Ward in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 134th overall.
Harrison Smith is entering his age 34 season, and 2022 first-rounder Lewis Cine is coming off a serious leg injury. This made safety a need, and with it being a light class at that position, the Vikings were able to wait until Day 3 to address it. Ward, a defensive back from LSU, is thin for a safety at 188 pounds, and his speed checks in at 4.55 in the 40. Still, he managed to be a two-year starter at LSU and played well with six career picks. He's a depth option at safety who could be thrust into a role as a rookie.
