Steelers Re-Sign Versatile Running Back
The Pittsburgh Steelers have re-signed running back Jonathan Ward to the practice squad, the team announced on Tuesday. Ward cleared waivers after being waived by the Steelers on Saturday.
Ward has been playing a key special teams role for Pittsburgh in recent weeks, in addition to serving as the team’s third running back. Ward first joined the Steelers on a veteran tryout contract back during rookie minicamp. He impressed with his blocking ability and versatility, first earning a contract and then a spot on the team’s practice squad with another strong showing at training camp.
In total, Ward has played in four games for the Steelers. He’s seen just 10 snaps of offense, running the ball five times for 22 yards. His more significant contributions have been as a part of the Steelers’ league-best special teams units. Ward has been playing a role on kickoff, kick return, punt and punt return units for the Steelers, earning a season-high 19 reps in the team’s Week 8 win over the New York Giants.
The Steelers released Ward and safety Terrell Edmunds on Saturday to make room for Tyler Matakevich and Ben Skowronek, who were reinstated from the injured reserve list. Matakevich and Skowronek are both core special teamers.
The 27-year-old Ward is in his fifth NFL season, and has previously played with the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans and also spent time with the New York Jets. His most significant contributions came in 2021, when he rushed nine times for 33 yards and caught three passes for 34 yards in 13 games with the Cardinals.
He first joined the Steelers as a tryout during rookie minicamp, and Ward immediately impressed with his pass blocking prowess.
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