Steelers' Backfield Now Has A Hidden Game-Changer Who’s Soaring Up The Depth Chart

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense was a frustrating sight throughout the 2023 season. Recognizing the need for change, the team made significant moves in the offseason to address the issues that plagued their performance. One of the boldest decisions was hiring former Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator. Though Smith faced challenges as a head coach, he earned a strong reputation as an offensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans, where he crafted an exciting, hard-nosed offense.

In Pittsburgh, Smith is expected to bring back a physical, punishing style of play, heavily emphasizing a strong ground game. Under his guidance, the Steelers’ offensive line and running backs will be playing with renewed intensity and toughness. Smith is fortunate to inherit one of the league’s top running back duos in Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, along with a host of under-the-radar backs battling for spots on the depth chart.

Among these lesser-known players, journeyman veteran Jonathan Ward has stood out in training camp. During a Friday morning segment on 93.7 The Fan, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Ray Fittipaldo highlighted Ward as his sleeper of camp. Fittipaldo believes Ward could have a meaningful impact this season—a surprising development, considering many doubted Ward would even make the roster.

"For me, Jonathan Ward, and unfortunately he's a little bit banged up right now. I don't know if we're gonna get to see him against the Bills. This is an older guy, didn't really know too much about him before he came into camp, but he shows up every day. He makes plays as a running back in the running game. He's really good on special teams."

The Steelers have their top two running backs locked in with Harris and Warren, but things get interesting behind them. Pittsburgh brought in veteran return man Cordarrelle Patterson, who has also found success as a running back and wide receiver throughout his career. Patterson thrived in Smith’s system in Atlanta, particularly when healthy, which could suggest that Smith and the Steelers plan to feature him in the run game.

Meanwhile, La'Mical Perine and Aaron Shampklin have had solid training camps, though neither is expected to make a significant impact or even secure a roster spot, despite the possibility. 

Daijun Edwards, an undrafted rookie out of Georgia, also enters the mix after a strong preseason performance against the Houston Texans. However, despite the competition for the third running back spot, Fittipaldo has made it clear that, based on his camp performance, Ward should be the Steelers' third back.

"I think this is a guy who's gonna be on the team either way, whether it's the 53-man roster or the practice squad," Fittipaldo said. "You could elevate him for special teams when needed. You always need guys like that... After Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris, I think he's been the third best running back in camp."

Steelers' Jonathan Ward Hasn't Had Much Opportunity Early In His Career

Ward entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2020 but has struggled to carve out a significant role. He began with the Arizona Cardinals and later played for the Tennessee Titans, frequently moving between the active roster and practice squad with limited game action. To date, Ward has only 17 carries for 69 rushing yards and no touchdowns.

This camp, however, Ward has made a strong impression and improved his standing. The running back depth chart behind Harris and Warren is quite crowded. However, Ward has given himself a really good chance to make the roster.

Although Ward is currently dealing with an injury, if he can get healthy in time, he will have an opportunity to further boost his stock in the upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. Fans are eager to see how the depth chart will ultimately shape up at the running back position. 

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