Jonathan Ward Trying To Lock Down Spot In Crowded RB Room

In public, Jonathan Ward isn’t noticed like a Kyler Murray or DeAndre Hopkins, but the 24-year-old had a taste after his impressive fake punt reception against the Cowboys in Week 17 last season.

“There were a lot of people that went and googled my picture to see what I looked like,” Ward said. “I’ve been in the grocery stores and recognized from the people you least expect it from.”

Now Ward has a chance to build on his popularity by rising in the running back depth chart, which won’t be easy. James Conner will be the starter in 2022 after signing a new deal this offseason. But there is a battle to see who else makes the roster between between Eno Benjamin, Darrel Williams, Keaontay Ingram, and Ward.

It seems unlikely the team will keep five backs.

The rushers have a strong relationship, but that doesn’t change the steep competition in a crowded and talented running back room.

“It makes you bring your ‘A’ game,” Ward said. “Just one mistake can put you behind the competition, so it’s about going out there every day and giving it the best you have. You can’t go out there and glide through the motions. Every day is a test.”

Benjamin continues to ascend heading into his third season. Williams brings championship experience from his time with the Chiefs. Ingram is a rookie that flashed in the Cardinals’ Week 1 preseason victory over the Bengals, but so did Ward.

Kingsbury acknowledged Ward’s skillset outside of running back makes him valuable. Benjamin doesn’t have a long history of special teams play, and neither does Ingram. That is one thing Ward can do.

“He has to continue to make plays when his number is called,” Kingsbury said. “It’s a good room and Ward is right there with them. Every time he touches the ball, he makes something happen. Anytime you can contribute on special teams and be an effective back, there will be a place for you in this league.”

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