Steelers running back Jaylen Warren has become a focal point of fantasy football discussions as he navigates a recent setback that kept him sidelined during a crucial matchup. The back, who had been establishing himself as a reliable fantasy option through the first few games of the season, suddenly found himself sidelined.
With the Steelers enjoying their bye week, Warren has had additional recovery time to address the issue that caught many fantasy managers off guard. HC Mike Tomlin’s optimistic outlook suggests positive momentum, but Warren’s practice participation this week will be the key indicator for his availability and role moving forward.
Jaylen Warren Injury Update
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Jaylen Warren missed Week 4’s game against the Minnesota Vikings due to a knee injury, and the team had its bye week in Week 5, so he has had extra time to get up to full strength.
Head coach Mike Tomlin said the arrow is pointing up for Warren, but his practice participation will be crucial. Kenneth Gainwell had a strong game as the starter in Week 4 and could have a bigger role depending on Warren’s status.
— PFSN Fantasy Football Analyst Dan Fornek
Warren Fantasy Outlook
A nagging knee injury made Warren a surprise scratch in Week 4, but all signs point to him being back in his lead role after the bye.
This is a conservative offense with a savvy quarterback being asked to get rid of the ball quickly. That plays right into the hands of a versatile threat like Warren, landing him in my RB2 tier this week despite the lingering injury and tough matchup.
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A Steelers running back has graced the top-20 at the position in all four of their games (Warren for the first three and Kenneth Gainwell against the Vikings in Week 4), and while I question the ceiling of all attached to this offense, the floor seems to be high enough to bank on.
Gainwell remains the handcuff to hold over rookie Kaleb Johnson, but I don’t envision this beginning a committee situation, provided that the knee issues are behind Warren.
— PFSN Fantasy Football Analyst Kyle Soppe
