Steelers RB Jaylen Warren Makes Feelings Clear on Bigger Workload After Najee Harris’ Exit

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ backfield has undergone its biggest shake-up in years, and Jaylen Warren is ready to lead the charge. With Najee Harris now in Los Angeles, the veteran running back knows the expectations have changed, and he’s made it clear he’s not just embracing the opportunity, he’s actively preparing for it.

Warren’s Adjusted Offseason Sends Clear Signal

Warren is known for his no-nonsense approach, and this offseason was no different. Speaking from the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, the 26-year-old said he tailored his training to focus on longevity, not just explosiveness.

“I approached this offseason differently,” said Warren. “I did a lot more things for longevity wise, instead of my old-school training, like just getting the cleats on and running 30 hills. I had to adapt.”

“This game is about longevity. And like they say, the best ability is availability.”

Availability hasn’t been an issue for Warren; he’s appeared in 48 of 51 possible games across his first three seasons. But after a hamstring injury sidelined him early in 2024, the Steelers were cautious about easing him back in.

That led to a noticeable dip in usage: 158 touches compared to 210 the year before.

Even still, Warren put up 821 total yards and continued to prove his value as a pass-catching threat. His 38 receptions in 2024 marked a slight drop from the 61 he recorded in 2023, but the role shift with Harris dominating touches made that inevitable. Now, that workload is up for grabs.

Can Warren Handle the Lead Role in Pittsburgh?

Harris averaged 319 touches per year since joining Pittsburgh in 2022, with 299 of those coming just last year. That’s a significant void, and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith made it clear the offense is built for backs who can stay on the field and handle volume.

“Let’s leave it at 500 carries to divvy up,” said Smith. “Obviously losing Naj, that’s a lot of missing carries.”

Warren’s not expecting to take them all, the team added rookie Kaleb Johnson and free-agent Kenneth Gainwell, but he’s training as if he might have to.

“No doubt about it,” he said. “That’s the way I’m training.”

Head coach Mike Tomlin offered a one-word endorsement when asked if Warren could handle a heavier workload: “Certainly.”

Warren might be just 5’8”, 215 pounds, but he runs angry, blocks well, and has already shown he can produce. His final collegiate season at Oklahoma State? 256 carries and 25 receptions; proof that the volume isn’t new.

As training camp approaches, Warren has taken the lead in drills, set the tone in the room, and positioned himself to be the featured option in Pittsburgh’s reworked backfield.