The Pittsburgh Steelers entered training camp with running back Jaylen Warren as the top running back, and he successfully held onto that role. Warren was named the starting running back on the depth chart, and head coach Mike Tomlin says that Warren will be the team’s ‘featured runner’ this season.
That is not much of a surprise, as Warren earned a two-year extension on Monday that will keep him with the team through the 2027 season.
Tomlin heaped praise on Warren while saying rookie Kaleb Johnson and veteran Kenneth Gainwell will see playing time, too, but it is Warren’s backfield.
“You know, his progress is very evident and he’s to be congratulated. That guy has gone from an undrafted, as you mentioned, to getting second contract business, and certainly he’s been deserving of that,” Tomlin said. “Certainly, be our featured runner, but we’re not opposed to utilizing Kenny G [Gainwell] and Kaleb [Johnson]. I’m sure you’ll see them. At what time and to what degree will be determined how the game unfolds and probably somewhat week to week based on a myriad of variables. Certainly, proud and happy for Jaylen and excited that we’re going to do extended business with him.”
Despite an injury-filled 2024 season, Warren became the team’s lead back down the stretch. He finished with over 800 combined yards despite the hamstring and knee injuries he battled throughout the season.
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