Steelers Elevate Two from Practice Squad for Jets Game

The Pittsburgh Steelers play host to the New York Jets in week 7 on Sunday Night Football. The Jets bring Aaron Rodgers and their newly acquired receiver Davante Adams whom the Steelers reportedly were in on. Ahead of this prime time matchup, the Steelers made a number of roster moves including two elevations from the practice squad.

On Saturday, the Steelers announced the elevations of two offensive position players from the practice squad. They promoted WR Brandon Johnson and RB Jonathan Ward to the roster ahead of the matchup with the injuries to Cordarrelle Patterson from week 4 and a new hamstring injury for Roman Wilson.

Jonathan Ward, who the Steelers acquired over the summer after a tryout, will be making his 3rd elevation from the practice squad on the season. Previously, had had filled in for both Patterson and Jaylen Warren. Last week against the Las Vegas Raiders he received 3 carries for 13 yards. This week, his services likely means he will be used again in the kick return game as he was the previous two weeks.

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jonathan Ward during a preseason game against the Houston Texans on Aug. 10, 2024. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now

The most intriguing of these elevations might be Brandon Johnson. Johnson made his Steelers debut in week 5 against the Dallas Cowboys. What is most intriguing about this elevation is the fact he has history with Russell Wilson. During Wilson’s tenure from 2022-2023, he caught 26 passes for 335 yards with 5 touchdowns. With Wilson set to start in his first game as the Steelers’ quarterback, this may help Wilson shake off the rust.