Steelers add another veteran to running back room

The Steelers already have one of the best running back duos in the league in Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, but they added to their backfield on Tuesday.

Pittsburgh announced it signed veteran running back Jonathan Ward to a one-year contract just a couple of hours before the start of OTAs.

The addition of Ward doesn't come as a surprise after he caught the attention of running backs coach Eddie Faulkner during his tryout at rookie minicamp.

Plus, the Steelers previously had just three running backs on their 90-man roster and typically carry at least four during OTAs, mandatory minicamps and training camp.

Ward will join a room that includes Harris, Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson. Patterson signed a two-year, $6 million deal with Pittsburgh this offseason.

Patterson was likely brought in to be the Steelers' kickoff returner primarily. The 33-year-old is the NFL's all-time leader in kickoff returns for touchdowns with nine in his 11-year career.

There's no denying his connection with new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith after spending the last three years together in Atlanta. Since 2021, Patterson has been given plenty of opportunities under Smith with 347 carries and 82 catches.

That alone will make it difficult for Ward to make the 53-man roster in Pittsburgh, but a chance is all the former undrafted running back in 2020 has needed. 

The 26-year-old is one unfortunate injury away from being the third option in the Steelers running attack, and in the meantime, can raise his value running behind the team's improved offensive line.

Ward has spent most of his time on special teams during the first four years of his career with the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans. However, he has been given some opportunities, rushing for 69 yards and posting six catches for 52 yards and a touchdown.