Can Jaylen Warren Become The Steelers RB1?

Prior to his rookie year in 2022, Jaylen Warren was one of the top running backs in the Big 12 Conference.

During his senior year at Oklahoma State in 2021, Warren helped guide the Cowboys to a 12-2 record, finishing fifth in the conference in rushing yards with 1,216. Almost four years later, Warren has the chance to take the reins as the Pittsburgh Steelers' feature running back, with Najee Harris no longer in the picture. Despite entering the league undrafted, Warren has developed into one of the more underrated players at his position.

Even with the possibility of the team drafting a running back this year, head coach Mike Tomlin voiced his confidence in Warren becoming the team's feature back. "I certainly feel comfortable with his ability to do so," he told the media in attendance. "He got hampered by injury some in 2024. He appears to be ready to answer that. I know he is really excited about his opportunity. I don't think myself, or anyone within the organization, questions his talents in regards to potentially managing that role."

Tomlin also acknowledged the depth of talent in this year's running back class, which the team has taken full advantage of during their pre-Draft process. Since January, the Steelers have met with 20 different running back prospects, nine of whom the team hosted for pre-Draft visits. All signs point towards the team taking one on Day 2 or potentially on Day 3. Despite this, Warren has been given a vote of confidence to lead the Steelers' backfield.

---

In three seasons, Warren has registered 1,674 yards on 346 carries and scored six touchdowns. Most notably, he has averaged 4.8 yards per carry during this period.