Wednesday, though, some sparks of passion flew from the Giants’ locker room — the author of some strong words directed at Rodgers and the Jets being 29-year-old eighth-year defensive lineman Jihad Ward.
Ward, in his second season with the Giants, took offense to Rodgers and Jets receiver Randall Cobb, who delivered an illegal blindside block on Giants cornerback Bobby McCain on a Rodgers pass completion in the teams’ annual preseason game Saturday night at MetLife Stadium.
Cobb was penalized and McCain left the game after the play with a concussion and, as of Wednesday, remained in concussion protocol.
The salty exchange was brought to light by the latest HBO episode of “Hard Knocks,’’ during which Rodgers mocked Ward after Ward shoved him following a play. Rodgers, who was mic’d up, was seen and heard having a back-and-forth with Ward.
Jihad Ward (right) and Aaron Rodgers exchange words during last week’s Giants-Jets preseason battle.AP
“That’s f–king bulls–t, bro,” Rodgers said to Ward. “What the f–k is that? Show some respect. C’mon, what the f–k is that? Five damn steps.”