Ward came to the Bucs as a free agent during the 2009 offseason, but never showed the form that made him a 1,000-yard rusher with the New York Giants in 2008.
Here’s a quick roundup of thoughts on the Buccaneers latest bust, Derrick Ward.
Raheem Morris — “It’s more about the resurgence of Mr. Cadillac and Mr. ‘Insurance’ Graham, where the team is headed, our plan and our direction,” said Morris. "No decision is made lightly around here. It was just time to make it today.
Rick Stroud — Ward had the biggest hand in his release. He rushed for 50 yards on 21 carries, a 2.4 yard per carry average, in three preseason games. Following the preseason opener at Miami, he openly sulked about the playing conditions and lack of blocking.
Roy Cummings — Running back Derrick Ward’s sluggish preseason has cost him a spot on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers roster.
Martin Fennelly — No other way to say it, Derrick Ward was a bust. When a guy coming off a lousy season reports to camp out of shape, when he is down to guaranteeing to media that he’ll have a big game … in a preseason tilt with Kansas City … it’s time to go.