NFL places Jimmie Ward on Commissioner Exempt list

Texans safety Jimmie Ward has been placed on the NFL's Commissioner Exempt list due to domestic violence allegations against him. This decision prohibits Ward from practicing or playing while the case is ongoing. Ward was initially arrested in June for third-degree felony assault and was arrested again for allegedly violating release terms. The alleged victim has also filed a lawsuit accusing Ward of physical and sexual assault. Ward, who underwent offseason foot surgery, has been on the Physically Unable to Perform list. A former first-round pick by the 49ers in 2014, Ward joined the Texans after nine seasons in San Francisco, following defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans to Houston when Ryans became the head coach. The NFL uses the Commissioner Exempt list as a form of paid leave, particularly in cases involving domestic violence allegations, without it being considered disciplinary action.