Free agent safety T.J. Ward has endured a bit of a rough stretch, to say the least. Fortunately, things may have taken a turn for the better after he was cleared of all criminal charges this month.
Despite his recent struggles both on and off the field, Ward is convinced he can still play at a high level. He said during an appearance on SiriusXM NFL Radio that his poor stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was due to the coaching staff:
“I wasn’t allowed to be the player I wanted to be last year, and it hurt me,” Ward said. “I’ve been a top-tier safety in this league since I entered, and I’m going to continue to be until I exit. I’m ready to get back on the field and go.”
Ward's statements may seem a bit bold. However, he does boast one of the more impressive resumes of any player still left on the market. The former two-time Pro Bowler played an integral role in the Denver Broncos' defense during their championship run in Super Bowl 50.
However, he has not managed to do much since then after signing with Tampa Bay. He started just five games for the Bucs and finished the 2017 campaign with 30 tackles, three pass breakups, and no interceptions. That said, it is hard to imagine the scheme having that drastic of an effect on a top-tier player.
Unfortunately, the market did not bode well for quality safeties this offseason. Ward is just one of many notable players at the position who are still without a new home going into training camp. His baggage off the field could also potentially make him the most undesirable.
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