What Jimmie Ward pickup means for Texans

Defensive back Jimmie Ward will reunite with ex-49ers defensive coordinator and current Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans. It's an addition that should help Houston on and off the field.

Ward, who played for Ryans in San Francisco, and the Texans agreed to a deal Monday, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Per KHOU Houston’s Aaron Wilson, it’s a two-year, $13 million deal. 

Ward will likely replace safety Jonathan Owens, who is expected to leave in free agency. In 2022, Owens had a career-high 125 tackles — second-best on the team. 

The 31-year-old Ward will make that loss easier for the Texans to stomach. His leadership in the locker room should aid a young secondary.

Ward, who spent the last nine seasons playing cornerback and safety for the 49ers, could mentor promising corner Derek Stingley Jr. and safety Jalen Pitre. 

Stingley spent most of his rookie season on injured reserve. The 2022 first-round pick was limited to nine games last season due to a hamstring injury. 

Meanwhile, Pitre had an outstanding season. The 23-year-old had a team-high 147 tackles and five interceptions. He was named to the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie team. 

Switching from safety to nickelback due to the addition of Tashaun Gipson, Ward was forced to adapt in a new role with the 49ers. Last season, he had a career-high three interceptions on a defense that was among the best in the league. 

Ward brings playoff experience to a team that hasn’t reached the postseason since 2019. 

Houston, which finished 3-13-1 last season, is looking for a spark. One player won’t turn the franchise around, but Ward's addition is a huge positive for the Texans.