The Minnesota Vikings are bringing back a familiar face to their defense.

On Friday, the team announced it had signed OLB Jihad Ward, whom it had added to the practice squad on September 9. The New York Giants signed Ward to their active roster on October 1.

However, Ward has previous experience with the Vikings predating last month. He played 505 snaps for Minnesota in 2024 and played a key rotational role. Ward played 505 snaps, generating 31 pressures in a unique role where he was lined up as an interior rusher.

To make room for Ward, the Vikings released OT Tristan Leigh, an undrafted free agent rookie out of Clemson.