Steelers Stun Fans with Sudden Release of Beloved Veteran RB—What’s Next for Team’s Offensive Strategy?

Ever wonder how quickly the tides can turn in the NFL? One minute, you’re suiting up and carving out a niche on special teams, and the next, you’re suddenly out the door—like Jonathan Ward’s unexpected release from the Steelers after an entire 2024 season with Pittsburgh. It’s a harsh reminder that in football—and in business—the evaluation room never closes, and yesterday’s promise can vanish overnight. As the Steelers reshuffle their deck, this move hints at a broader chess game unfolding league-wide, raising questions about what dominoes might fall next. Let’s unpack the journey of a player who grabbed his shot, however brief, and the relentless realities behind roster roulette.

The Pittsburgh Steelers continue reshaping their roster as they released a running back, ending his tenure with the organization after spending the entire 2024 season in Pittsburgh.

The move has generated immediate speculation about potential connections to other roster decisions across the league.

Jonathan Ward’s departure comes after he signed a reserve/futures contract in January, suggesting the team’s evaluation process led to a quick change in direction.

The timing has raised questions about whether this roster spot could be connected to broader league movements involving veteran players.

“We have released RB Jonathan Ward,” the Steelers announced Thursday afternoon.

We have released RB Jonathan Ward. @BordasLaw

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) June 19, 2025

The 2024 season represented Ward’s most extensive NFL opportunity to date.

He appeared in four games during the regular season, carrying the ball five times for 22 yards in contests against Dallas, Las Vegas, New York Jets, and New York Giants.

While his offensive contributions remained modest with just 10 total snaps, Ward carved out a role on special teams where he logged 59 snaps throughout the campaign.

Ward’s journey with Pittsburgh began after an impressive showing during rookie minicamp, earning him a one-year contract in May.

His preseason performance showed flashes of potential despite limited opportunities.

He rushed for 26 yards on six carries in the opener against Houston, followed by no touches against Buffalo, then finished with one carry for three yards versus Detroit.

After failing to make the initial 53-man roster, Ward remained in the organization’s plans.

He shuffled between the practice squad and active roster early in the season before earning a spot on the main roster in late October.

That stint lasted just over a week before returning to the practice squad, where he finished the season before signing his futures contract on January 20.

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