The Steelers have signed running back Jonathan Ward to a one-year contract following his rookie minicamp tryout. The team made the signing official Tuesday morning.
Financial details of the contract are not yet known.
Ward, 26, was invited to rookie camp after going unsigned in free agency. The former undrafted free agent out of Central Michigan has spent time with the Titans and Cardinals in a four-year career and has 42 games of NFL experience under his belt. During that time, Ward has complied 17 carries for 69 yards and six catches for 52 yards and one touchdown. He's also able to contribute on special teams as he's logged 16 tackles in 553 snaps on special teams during his career.
Ward obviously stood out enough during rookie minicamp to earn a crack at making the 53-man roster alongside Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson in the running back room. While Pittsburgh doesn't always keep four running backs, they tend to utilize a fourth when it's one of their better special teams options.
Since Ward has a good track record on special teams, he shouldn't be ruled out as a legitimate option for one of the final spots on the 53-man roster.
