Who Should I Start? Jonathan Ward or Montrell Johnson Jr.

Thursday, June 19, 3:13 PM

The Pittsburgh Steelers released veteran running back Jonathan Ward on Thursday, the team announced on X. After signing with the organization last offseason, Ward spent the 2024 campaign rotating between the active roster and the practice squad. He appeared in four contests, totaling five carries for 22 yards. The undrafted free agent in 2020 out of Central Michigan has spent time with the Arizona Cardinals, New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, and Steelers during his five-year NFL career, compiling 91 rushing yards and 52 receiving yards with one total touchdown. The 27-year-old could find his way on an active roster for another team, but he'll likely have to make his mark on special teams.

Friday, August 22, 11:15 PM

Philadelphia Eagles running back Montrell Johnson Jr. carried the ball 15 times for 57 yards and a touchdown in a 19-17 win over the New York Jets on Friday. Johnson got more than double his touches from last week against Cleveland and was far more productive in an overall stronger outing for the Philly offense. His highlight came in a 15-yard rush up the middle for his team's only time finding the end zone all night. The undrafted rookie couldn't manage to get very involved in the passing game, having no receptions on two targets. While Johnson has gotten the most work in the Eagles backfield over the last two games, it still seems unlikely that he'll get many looks during the 2025 season.