Texans S Jimmie Ward facing domestic violence civil suit

Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward is now facing a civil lawsuit in addition to a felony domestic violence charge.

A woman filed suit Wednesday in Harris County (Texas) District Court alleging she was "violently assaulted multiple times, both sexually and physically" by Ward, including in front of their 3-year-old child.

She is seeking damages of more than $20 million and accuses Ward of emotional abuse, financial manipulation, drug use and threats against her life. The lawsuit also accuses him of adultery and "violent, felonious and egregious behavior."

The woman alleged Ward was "under the influence of methamphetamines, specifically, crystal meth," when he slapped and choked her before forcing her into a sex act.

Ward, 34, was arrested on June 12 at his home in Magnolia, Texas, and held on a third-degree charge of felony domestic violence.

He has since violated his bond agreement by contacting the woman, per the lawsuit. He also was arrested earlier this month after testing positive for alcohol, another violation of the agreement.

Ward's criminal case is slated to go to a grand jury on Aug. 31.

He was placed on the Texans' physically unable to perform list after undergoing offseason foot surgery.

Ward recorded 48 tackles and two interceptions -- one returned for a touchdown -- in 10 games (all starts) last season. He has totaled 549 tackles, 10 interceptions -- three returned for TDs -- in 126 career games (99 starts) with the San Francisco 49ers (2014-22) and Texans.

--Field Level Media