The Steelers are bringing back running back Jonathan Ward, signing him to a futures contract. The team made the move official Monday afternoon.

Ward, 27, spent the 2024 season with the Steelers, carrying the ball five times for 22 yards while playing a more significant role on special teams. He recorded two special teams tackles in those four games.

The five-year pro initially joined the team on a professional tryout during rookie minicamp, then spent the majority of the season on the practice squad. Ward was elevated from the practice squad three times, the maximum number permitted, and was even moved to the active roster on Oct. 28. He was later waived on Nov. 9, then was re-signed to the practice squad four days later.

Bringing Ward back gives the Steelers another depth option and some continuity with the current offense, assuming Arthur Smith won't be hired as the Jets' new head coach. The only running back under contract right now is Cordarrelle Patterson, but there's a good chance he's cut to clear a little salary cap space. At most, Ward should be viewed as an outside candidate to be a No. 3 running back, but most likely will serve in the same role he had this past season.