Ward’s move to Commissioner’s Exempt List leaves Houston’s back end thin heading into Week 1 against the Rams. The 11-year veteran logged 48 tackles last season and is coming off a knee injury; he’s on PUP and could face league discipline after the NFL investigation. The situation tightens the Texans’ safety depth right away and could lift Calen Bullock into a larger role early.

Bullock is the likely anchor, while CJ Gardner-Johnson’s knee status and rookie Jaylin Smith’s sprain add uncertainty to Week 1. Fantasy managers should watch the Texans’ safety rotation closely, as extra snaps for Bullock and fellow safeties could boost tackle upside in the early games, especially against Los Angeles’s aerial attack.

The NFL placed Jimmie Ward on the commissioner exemption list, sidelining the Texans safety as Houston navigates a June arrest for alleged family violence and an August arrest for violating release conditions tied to alcohol. A Harris County lawsuit followed in August. DeMeco Ryans urged patience and not to rush judgment while Ward, 33, proceeds through the legal process after signing a two-year, $13 million deal with Houston. Ward contributed 1 interception in 2023 and 2 in 2024 across 10 games.

Jimmie Ward, Houston Texans safety, was placed on the NFL commissioner's exempt list, sidelining him from practice and games as the league begins its own review amid a string of offseason legal issues. Ward’s June arrest for assault and threats toward the mother of his child, plus a bond-violation alcohol test and a civil suit, prompted the designation. The Texans will wait for due process before weighing Ward’s status. Ward started training camp on PUP after a foot injury last season and posted two interceptions in 10 games. The exempt tag means paid leave while the league investigates under the personal conduct policy, with a possible suspension regardless of legal outcomes.

Jimmie Ward, Texans safety, is on the NFL Commissioner Exempt List, sidelining him from all team activities as off-field legal issues unfold. A Harris County lawsuit alleges Ward assaulted a woman while under crystal meth influence and notes bail violations tied to an alcohol test. Ward signed a two-year, $13 million contract in 2023 and a 2024 extension, with free agency looming after 2025. His absence clouds the Texans’ safety depth ahead of the season.