Every few years, an undrafted rookie makes a name for themselves in training camp. Normally, that rookie, while a training camp darling, doesn’t live up to the hype they created in preseason and training camp. However, in 2022, the Pittsburgh Steelers training camp darling was RB Jaylen Warren, and now entering the 2025 season, he is in line to be the Steelers starting running back come Week One.
Another 2022 rookie, TE Darnell Washington, recalled being surprised that Warren was undrafted as they both went through their rookie offseason programs with the Steelers.
“Honestly, I thought he was and this, again, I never watched football, so when I first came in, and before I knew where he went or whatever, undrafted. I thought he was like a third, second-round pick,” said Washington on stream with Zach’s Tech Turf. “Just how he plays and how he carries himself.”
Jaylen Warren joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2022. At 5-foot-8, 215 pounds, he seemed undersized. With players like Najee Harris, Benny Snell Jr., and Anthony McFarland ahead of him, all of whom Pittsburgh had drafted in previous years, Warren had a difficult path to making the Steelers’ final 53-man roster.
But Warren plays much bigger than his stature indicates. He made a name for himself in training camp with his performance in “back-on-backers,” a drill where running backs and tight ends face off against linebackers in one-on-one situations.
Jaylen Warren excelled in pass protection in the 2022 offseason and preseason, but that did not negate his rushing ability. He showcased an impressive burst through training camp, and in three preseason games, he ran for 48 yards on 16 carries. While the rushing numbers were not eye-popping, his burst, along with being the best pass-protecting running back on the team, led to Warren making the Steelers’ 53-man roster entering the 2022 season.
As Harris dealt with a foot injury for most of the beginning of 2022, Warren looked like Pittsburgh’s best back with the “juice” he had when running the football. Despite being an undrafted rookie, Warren looked like he belonged in the NFL, making many question how he wasn’t drafted.
Noticed live how good Jaylen Warren was a on lead blocks Sunday. Had two pivotal ones. This is the first one. Great job getting to Vonn Bell and knocking him back, helping Chase Claypool move the chains. Teammates appreciated Warren's effort. #SteelersVsBengals pic.twitter.com/AWpooWpbyY
— Josh Carney (@ByJoshCarney) September 12, 2022
Jaylen Warren has always carried himself like a professional. This year, Pittsburgh chose to keep him on the roster over Harris. Not bad for an undrafted rookie.
Recommended for you