The New York Giants have entered another chapter of the NFL preseason marked by both roster additions and untimely setbacks, a reality that has become almost routine in the high-stakes, physically demanding world of professional football. On one hand, the team bolstered its depth by signing running back Jonathan Ward and linebacker K.J. Cloyd, two players who bring intriguing skill sets and a hunger to make their mark on the league. On the other hand, the Giants find themselves navigating the challenge of losing linebacker Ty Summers and rookie running back Rushawn Baker to injuries at a critical point in training camp. For head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, this moment embodies the delicate balancing act of building a roster that can endure the grind of an NFL season while adapting on the fly to sudden changes in personnel.
Jonathan Ward is not a stranger to NFL action, and his signing gives the Giants a back with both experience and versatility. At 6-foot and roughly 202 pounds, Ward has proven himself as more than just a depth option in past stops with the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans. His ability to contribute on special teams, combined with his patience as a runner and his receiving skills out of the backfield, makes him a valuable addition in a running back room that has been tested early in camp. Ward’s NFL journey has been a testament to persistence—never the marquee name, but always prepared when his number is called. That adaptability will be critical in New York, especially given the current injury situation and the physical nature of the NFC East.
K.J. Cloyd’s arrival addresses another pressing need. The linebacker position has been a focal point for the Giants’ defensive identity, and adding a player with Cloyd’s athleticism provides immediate competition and insurance. Coming out of Louisville, Cloyd showcased a mix of speed and strength, traits that can translate into both defensive snaps and special teams work. His path to the NFL has been one of consistent growth, developing from a college contributor to a player with the tools to carve out a role in the pros. For defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, who thrives on aggression and versatility in his schemes, Cloyd’s skill set could be a natural fit. He’s capable of sideline-to-sideline pursuit, and if he can absorb the playbook quickly, he might find himself in the rotation sooner rather than later.
The flipside to these acquisitions is the disappointment of losing two players who had been expected to play important roles. Ty Summers, a dependable presence in the linebacking corps, is more than just a depth piece—he has been a reliable tackler and a core special teamer since arriving in New York. Summers’ injury not only affects the depth chart but also impacts team chemistry, as his leadership and work ethic have been valued in the locker room. His absence creates an immediate need for others to step up, both in practice reps and in establishing the same level of consistency he brought to the field.
Rookie running back Rushawn Baker’s injury is particularly frustrating for the coaching staff. Training camp is a crucial window for young players to prove they belong, and Baker had been looking to make an impression in a competitive backfield. Known for his explosive burst and potential as a change-of-pace runner, Baker was a player the Giants hoped could bring fresh energy to their rushing attack. Now, with his development temporarily paused, the team will have to find alternative ways to evaluate their options and maintain depth. For Baker, the road back will be about staying mentally engaged with the playbook and preparing for the moment he’s cleared to return.
These roster moves and injuries also reflect the ever-changing landscape of NFL preseason rosters. In August, a team’s depth chart is often a living document, shifting based on performance, health, and opportunities. The signings of Ward and Cloyd are as much about immediate needs as they are about evaluating talent that could stick for the long term. For both players, this is a golden chance to prove themselves—not only in the eyes of the Giants’ coaching staff but also across the league, where good preseason tape can lead to future opportunities.
From a strategic perspective, Daboll and Schoen’s quick moves show a proactive approach to roster management. Injuries can derail momentum, but the Giants are signaling that they intend to keep competition high and not let setbacks dictate the narrative. In Ward’s case, his familiarity with multiple offensive systems should help him integrate quickly, while Cloyd’s youth and athletic upside offer a longer-term developmental project for the defensive staff. Both players will likely be tested early, especially in preseason matchups where roster spots are on the line and every snap counts toward evaluation.
There’s also an underlying reality that these signings serve as insurance policies. The NFL season is long and physically punishing; teams that last deep into the year often do so because their depth holds up under pressure. Adding experienced players like Ward ensures the Giants don’t have to overextend their starters in camp or force injured players back before they’re ready. Meanwhile, a fresh set of legs and a young linebacker like Cloyd can provide a spark and keep practice intensity high, which is essential in building a competitive roster.
In the locker room, the arrival of new teammates always brings an adjustment period. Veterans will look to see how quickly Ward and Cloyd buy into the Giants’ culture, while younger players might view them as both mentors and competition. For the newcomers, making a positive first impression will be about more than just on-field performance—it will require demonstrating a team-first mentality, mastering the playbook, and contributing in any way possible.
Fans, for their part, will be curious to see how these signings translate on the field. Preseason games often become the proving ground for such acquisitions, and standout performances can quickly shift public perception. The Giants’ faithful have seen mid-camp signings turn into valuable contributors before, and Ward and Cloyd will aim to follow that path. Given the unpredictable nature of the NFL, what starts as a depth signing in August can sometimes evolve into a key piece of a playoff push.
The unfortunate injuries to Summers and Baker also serve as a reminder of how fragile opportunities in the NFL can be. For every player who goes down, there’s another fighting to step into that void. That dynamic fuels competition, which, in turn, shapes the roster that ultimately takes the field in September. It’s a tough reality of the sport, but one that also creates stories of resilience and unexpected rise.
Looking ahead, the Giants will continue to evaluate the impact of these changes as camp progresses. Ward will likely get a fair share of reps in upcoming preseason games, particularly as the team experiments with different backfield combinations. Cloyd’s role will depend heavily on how quickly he can adapt to the defensive scheme, but his athletic profile suggests potential as a special teams contributor right away. Summers’ recovery timeline will be monitored closely, as his presence on the field and in the locker room remains important. For Baker, the emphasis will be on rehabilitation and mental preparation, ensuring he’s ready to compete once he returns.
Ultimately, this week’s moves highlight the constant motion of NFL roster building. The Giants have chosen to address their immediate needs with experienced and athletic additions, while also leaving the door open for further adjustments as preseason unfolds. Whether these signings become footnotes in the larger story of the season or pivotal turning points will depend on how Ward and Cloyd seize their opportunities, and how the team navigates the absence of Summers and Baker.
If there’s one thing the Giants have made clear, it’s that they intend to keep pushing forward regardless of setbacks. In a league where depth can define success, the signings of Jonathan Ward and K.J. Cloyd are more than just temporary fixes—they’re part of a strategy to maintain momentum and prepare for whatever challenges lie ahead. The next few weeks will tell whether that strategy pays off, but for now, New York has taken swift and deliberate steps to steady its roster and keep the competition fierce.
