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.