San Francisco drafted Jimmie Ward out of Northern Illinois with the 30th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. But he could’ve just as easily been a Texan.
Jimmie Ward, a former free agency safety, just committed to the Texans for a two-year deal for $13 million, strengthening the Houston defense under head coach DeMeco Ryans.After nine seasons in San Francisco, he was previously the 49er with the longest stay.
In addition to making a lot of friends and memories throughout those nine seasons, Ward also used Instagram to bid farewell to his old teammates:
“Being a part of the @49ers has been one of the greatest experiences of my life, and it is with a heavy heart that I now say goodbye,” was a component of his statement.
“I will always hold a special place in my heart for the San Francisco 49ers and the faithful family,” he concluded with a heartfelt sentiment. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this amazing institution, and I will always remember the things I learnt there. I am really grateful for what you have done.”Up until now, Ward has only ever been familiar with the 49ers as an NFL team.
In the 2014 NFL Draft, San Francisco selected Ward, a Northern Illinois native, with the thirtyth overall choice. However, he could as well have been a Texan.
In 2014, Houston invited Ward in for his first pre-draft visit.
That year, the Texans picked defensive end Jadeveon Clowney with the first overall choice. Only three choices before the Niners selected Ward, they also had the #1 pick in the second round. It’s always possible that they would have selected Ward with the 33rd overall pick in that particular season.
“I will always hold a special place in my heart for the San Francisco 49ers and the faithful family,” he concluded with a heartfelt sentiment. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this amazing institution, and I will always remember the things I learnt there. I am really grateful for what you have done.”Up until now, Ward has only ever been familiar with the 49ers as an NFL team.
