Atlanta Falcons 2017 Positional Breakdown Series: Running Backs

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Dec 18, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Terron Ward (28) runs against San Francisco 49ers cornerback Marcus Cromartie (20) in the fourth quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 41-13. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Veteran on the Bubble

Potential 3rd string/Bubble player. Age, 25

As mentioned earlier, Terron Ward has been a savvy veteran who was reliable when needed. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent out of Oregon State, Ward was on the practice squad for part of 2015 and 2016, but found his way to the active roster in each season.

As a rookie Ward had 29 rushed for 95 yards and one score. After being called back up from the practice squad in October of 2016, Ward added another 31 receptions for 151 yards. For his career Ward averages 4.1 yards per rush, but could be on the outside looking in thanks to the arrival of Hill.

Ward has football ability running in his blood. His older brother is the talented Denver Broncos safety T.J. Ward, which may explain why the 5-foot-7, 196-pound back is fearless whether running between the tackles or taking passes on a route over the middle. If he does make the roster, his speed may be what saves him as Ward offers more of a scat-role than any of the other Falcons options. Unfortunately, with draft picks being spent on players all around him it doesn’t seem too likely. He does have one more year of squad eligibility though, so that’s an option.

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2017 Stats Prediction:

15 rushes, 63 yards (4.2 average) 3 receptions, 21 yards (7.0 average)

Ward most likely goes to the practice squad, but may wind up filling in for an injury at some point.