Ward was not tendered a qualifying offer from Atlanta and became a free agent Wednesday, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

EDGE Analysis

Ward didn't receive substantial playing time during his three seasons in the crowded Falcons' backfield, but the undrafted back out of Oregon State was a gritty performer during his tenure in Atlanta. He accumulated only 90 carries between 2015 and 2017 but performed reasonably well with limited opportunity, averaging 4.2 yards per carry and fumbling only once.

Ward didn't earn a carry or a target as the Falcons fell to the Eagles 15-10 in the divisional round.

EDGE Analysis

Simply put, when Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman are healthy, Ward has a difficult time finding playing time, let alone getting carries or targets. He'll be an unrestricted free agent in the offseason, and it seems likely he'll gravitate towards a less crowded backfield, but that doesn't mean he's guaranteed touches or even a roster spot in 2018.

Ward rushed eight times for 40 yards in Monday's 24-21 win over Tampa Bay.

EDGE Analysis

Ward also caught one pass for six yards on the day. His increased workload was a direct result of Tevin Coleman being sidelined with a concussion, and Devonta Freeman still got the lion's share of work with 22 carries and five receptions. Ward would be in line for a similar workload if Coleman missed more time.

Ward rushed for 35 yards on seven carries and lost three yards on a catch during Sunday's 34-20 win over Tampa Bay. He lost a fumble during the contest.

EDGE Analysis

Ward saw 20 offensive snaps on Sunday with Devota Freeman (concussion) out of the lineup. It was also the third straight game of at least seven touches after no touches for the first six games of the year. The way Ward's season began is worth keeping note of, along with Freeman's health. An Atlanta backfield with a healthy Freeman and Tevin Coleman has little room for Ward.

Ward (knee) was absent from the Falcons' injury report and will be in line to play Monday against the Seahawks, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Ward was limited in practice Thursday due to a knee injury but will take the field Monday night. Devonta Freeman (concussion) has been ruled out of the contest, which will make Tevin Coleman the lead back and Ward the No. 2 option. As long as he remains healthy, Ward seems likely to see increased action Monday night given the Falcons' dual back play style.

Ward was limited in practice Thursday due to a knee injury, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

EDGE Analysis

The Falcons are already bracing for one game without starting running back Devonta Freeman, who is contending with a concussion and didn't participate Thursday. To make matters worse, the backfield has been dealt another hit with Ward's knee injury. His ability to practice in some capacity helps his cause, but Tevin Coleman would be poised for a workhorse outing if Ward is unable to ditch the concern. Ultimately, Ward has two more practices to change the narrative, so he could serve as a change-of-pace option to Coleman if he proves healthy.

Ward carried the ball nine times for 23 yards during Sunday's 27-7 win over the Cowboys.

EDGE Analysis

They were the first carries of the season for Ward, who finds himself behind the dynamic duo of Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman. There's no reason to get too excited, however. The carries were likely just a means of preserving the star backs as seven of Ward's nine carries came in the fourth quarter with the Falcons up multiple scores.

Ward (neck/shoulder) was a full participant at the Falcon's practice Wednesday, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Ward has been sidelined since mid-September with the neck and shoulder issues but finally appears to be in the clear. Assuming the 25-year-old suffers no setbacks the rest of the week, he should resume his role as a depth running back behind Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman.

Ward (neck) will not play in Sunday's game against the Bills, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

EDGE Analysis

Ward continues to nurse neck and shoulder injuries and there doesn't appear to be any sign of him nearing a return. Rookie tailback Brian Hill will continue to operate as the No. 3 option in the backfield for the Falcons on Sunday.

Ward (neck) isn't expected to play Sunday against the Lions, William McFadden of the Falcons' official site reports.

EDGE Analysis

Ward is tending to a pair of neck and shoulder injuries he suffered in practice this week. Look for rookie Brian Hill to operate as the No. 3 RB in his absence.