The Steelers Invited A Veteran RB For A Tryout And He’s Making A Memorable Impact

The Pittsburgh Steelers extended a warm welcome to four-year veteran running back Jonathan Ward as he embarks on a promising tryout at their 2024 rookie mini-camp. Despite entering the NFL in 2020, Ward missed out on the traditional rookie mini-camp experience due to the disruptive effects of the coronavirus pandemic, which halted sporting events worldwide.

Honing his skills during his college years at Central Michigan, Ward has since dedicated four seasons to the NFL, showcasing his talent in 32 games with the Arizona Cardinals and an additional 10 games with the Tennessee Titans. Despite limited opportunities to leave his mark on the league thus far, Ward remains steadfast in his determination to secure a coveted roster spot with the Steelers.

Throughout the tryout process with the Steelers, Ward's performance has caught the attention of the organization, putting them on notice with his impressive displays on the field. 

Eddie Faulkner, the Steelers' running backs coach, didn't hesitate to express his admiration for Ward's abilities, as captured in a video documenting the mini-camp proceedings. Ward explained the compliment Faulkner told him. 

“He said I’ve got ‘old-man’ hands,” Ward said. “I guess that’s good, being the old guy in the room. Guess I wouldn’t want to have ‘young-guy’ hands.”

Ward's career hasn't unfolded as he had hoped, but he's grateful for the opportunity to continue to have a shot to play in the league. He recently shared insights into the process that led him to Pittsburgh for a tryout during mini-camp.

“My agent he reached out to me and just told me, ‘Pack your bags, you’re going to minicamp this weekend,’ And that’s all I needed.”

Ward's journey epitomizes resilience; all he ever needed was a chance, and he's determined to fight for his spot in the NFL, whether it's with the Steelers or another squad. As he awaits news of the Steelers' intentions, with hopes of an invitation back for organized team activities, Ward reflects on his modest NFL career stats—just 17 carries for 69 rushing yards and six receptions for 52 receiving yards, including one touchdown.

For Ward, cracking the 53-man roster would mark an extraordinary achievement, albeit a formidable challenge. Should the Steelers extend an offer and he secures a spot, Ward envisions himself as a valuable addition to special teams. He also hopes to enhance a running back group already boasting stars like Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren.

Driven by an unyielding hunger to prove his worth, Ward cherishes every moment in Pittsburgh and remains profoundly grateful for the opportunity bestowed upon him. The Steelers have already made some moves to sign guys from the mini-camp tryouts. Ward will hope that he is lucky enough to be signed by the Steelers.

Steelers Have Been Finding Hidden Talent At The Running Back Spot

The Steelers have long boasted a formidable stable of running backs, known for their commitment to ground-and-pound football—a tradition they aim to revive in 2024 under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. While Ward has made a notable impression during his brief stint with the team, he's not the sole under-the-radar talent catching attention.

Joining the ranks is former Georgia standout Daijun Edwards, who landed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent after the 2024 NFL Draft. Edwards' emergence has not gone unnoticed, with Steelers insider Mark Kaboly tipping fans to keep a close watch on his progress. As Kaboly shared on social media, Edwards has shown promising development throughout rookie mini-camp, positioning himself as a potential hidden gem for the team.

Both Ward and Edwards harbor aspirations of making their mark on the Steelers' roster in the upcoming 2024 season, eager to seize any opportunity that comes their way.

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