The Steelers have already got the most effective working again duos within the league in Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, however they added to their backfield on Tuesday.
Pittsburgh introduced it signed veteran working again Jonathan Ward to a one-year contract simply a few hours earlier than the beginning of OTAs.
The addition of Ward would not come as a shock after he caught the eye of working backs coach Eddie Faulkner throughout his tryout at rookie minicamp.
Plus, the Steelers beforehand had simply three working backs on their 90-man roster and usually carry not less than 4 throughout OTAs, necessary minicamps and coaching camp.
Ward will be a part of a room that features Harris, Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson. Patterson signed a two-year, $6 million take care of Pittsburgh this offseason.
Patterson was doubtless introduced in to be the Steelers’ kickoff returner primarily. The 33-year-old is the NFL’s all-time chief in kickoff returns for touchdowns with 9 in his 11-year profession.
There isn’t any denying his reference to new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith after spending the final three years collectively in Atlanta. Since 2021, Patterson has been given loads of alternatives underneath Smith with 347 carries and 82 catches.
That alone will make it tough for Ward to make the 53-man roster in Pittsburgh, however an opportunity is all the previous undrafted working again in 2020 has wanted.
The 26-year-old is one unlucky damage away from being the third possibility within the Steelers working assault, and within the meantime, can increase his worth working behind the group’s improved offensive line.
Ward has spent most of his time on particular groups through the first 4 years of his profession with the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans. Nonetheless, he has been given some alternatives, speeding for 69 yards and posting six catches for 52 yards and a landing.
