Gridiron Glory
From Quarterback Ambitions to NFL Resilience: A Deep Dive into the Career of Greg Ward Jr.
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Greg Ward Jr.: A Multifaceted Athlete
The Athlete
Gregory Mario Ward Jr. (born July 12, 1995) is an American professional football player renowned for his versatility. He currently plays as a wide receiver for the San Antonio Brahmas in the United Football League (UFL). Ward's collegiate career at the University of Houston was marked by his exceptional dual-threat capabilities as a quarterback, a position he transitioned from after going undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft.
Championship Pedigree
Ward was a member of the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad in 2017 when the team achieved victory in Super Bowl LII. This experience, though not on the active roster, marked a significant early career milestone, placing him within a championship-winning organization.
Transition and Adaptation
Initially a highly touted quarterback at Houston, Ward demonstrated remarkable adaptability by successfully transitioning to the wide receiver position in the professional ranks. This transition highlights his commitment to the sport and his ability to evolve his skillset to meet the demands of professional football.
Formative Years: Tyler, Texas
Background and Upbringing
Born and raised in Tyler, Texas, Greg Ward Jr. grew up in a modest household. His father served as both a truck driver and a Pentecostal pastor, shaping Ward's early environment. He is one of four children.
High School Acclaim
Ward's high school career at John Tyler High School was exceptionally distinguished. As a senior in 2013, he showcased impressive dual-threat abilities, accumulating 4,202 passing yards and 39 touchdowns, complemented by 861 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His performance earned him Player of the Year honors in Texas High School football. Even as a junior, he recorded 3,596 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, alongside 1,212 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. His sophomore year saw him excel as a wide receiver, making 53 receptions for 667 yards and eight touchdowns. His talent was recognized with a three-star recruit rating, leading to his commitment to the University of Houston.
Houston Cougars: A Dual-Threat Dynamo
Versatile Impact
Ward's collegiate journey with the Houston Cougars (2013-2016) was characterized by his dynamic playmaking ability. As a true freshman in 2013, he contributed as both a backup quarterback and wide receiver, tallying 310 passing yards, one passing touchdown, 176 rushing yards with two touchdowns, and 95 receiving yards with a touchdown. He demonstrated his versatility early on.
Transition to Quarterback
During his sophomore year in 2014, Ward began as a starting wide receiver, recording 15 receptions for 139 yards and a touchdown. However, in October, he took over as the starting quarterback, replacing John O'Korn. He started the final eight games, completing 177 of 263 passes for 2,010 yards and 12 touchdowns, while also rushing for 573 yards and six touchdowns. This marked his emergence as a primary offensive leader.
Conference Dominance and Awards
Ward continued his stellar performance as Houston's starter in 2015, earning MVP honors in the 2015 American Athletic Conference Football Championship Game for his 148 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He was also named Offensive Player of the Game in the 2015 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, where Houston defeated No. 9 Florida State. His consistent excellence led to him being named Second-team All-AAC in both 2015 and 2016, and he received the prestigious Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award in 2015, recognizing the most outstanding college football player from Texas.
College Statistics
Professional Journey: NFL and Beyond
Philadelphia Eagles (First Stint)
Ward signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent on May 11, 2017. He spent time on the Eagles' practice squad during the 2017 and 2018 seasons, including their Super Bowl LII victory. Despite multiple stints on the practice squad and brief releases, he remained part of the organization.
San Antonio Commanders (AAF)
In 2019, Ward joined the San Antonio Commanders in the Alliance of American Football (AAF). He recorded 22 receptions for 214 yards over the eight games the league operated before its suspension, showcasing his abilities in a new professional setting.
Philadelphia Eagles (Second Stint)
Following the AAF's dissolution, Ward re-signed with the Eagles in April 2019. He made his NFL debut in Week 3 of the 2019 season and was promoted to the active roster multiple times due to injuries. He finished the 2019 season with 28 receptions for 254 yards and his first NFL touchdown. In 2020, he became a more prominent receiver, tallying 53 receptions for 419 yards and six touchdowns. He continued with the Eagles through the 2021 and 2022 seasons, often in a reserve role or on the practice squad, before being waived in 2022 and again in 2023.
Indianapolis Colts
Ward signed with the Indianapolis Colts on August 14, 2024, but was released shortly thereafter on August 25, 2024, as teams finalized their rosters.
San Antonio Brahmas (UFL)
Most recently, Ward signed with the San Antonio Brahmas of the United Football League (UFL) on November 21, 2024, continuing his professional football career.
Accolades and Recognition
Major Achievements
- ๐ Super Bowl champion (LII)
- โญ Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award (2015)
- ๐ 2x Second-team All-AAC (2015, 2016)
Career Statistics
NFL Regular Season Receiving
NFL Postseason Receiving
Team Affiliations
Professional Teams
Ward has been a part of several professional football organizations throughout his career:
- Philadelphia Eagles (2017โ2018, 2019โ2023)
- San Antonio Commanders (AAF, 2019)
- Indianapolis Colts (2024)
- San Antonio Brahmas (UFL, 2025โpresent)
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Important Notice
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This is not professional sports advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional analysis or consultation regarding athletic performance or career decisions. Always refer to official team information and consult with qualified sports professionals for specific needs.
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