Steelers Training Camp: Jaylen Warren’s Path to a Promising Season After Injuries

Warren is using what he learned last year to his advantage

Jaylen Warren

LATROBE, Pa. – The past year for Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren can be summed up well with a quote from NBA Hall of Famer Pat Riley: “In every adversity, there is a seed of equivalent benefit.”

A year ago, Warren was on track after one of his best seasons yet and looked poised for an even bigger year. Unfortunately, he suffered a hamstring injury during Pittsburgh’s preseason opener and a knee issue in Week 3 of the 2024 season, which turned the year tumultuous. He has reflected on this experience, stating, “It was just a reflection on the days I put off, or things I put off, trying to cut corners for easier days. But it’s not the case. There’s no cutting corners in this process.”

“Embrace every moment, get in the tubs, spend the 30 minutes in the training room. Whatever it takes for you, you know. So I’m really focusing on that.”

Warren noted that rest was often prioritized over staying at the facility post-practice, saying, “Instead of staying at the facility 30 extra minutes, I [would] go home and just rest. I love resting.”

While his last season didn’t go as planned, a healthier Warren is set to seize this year’s opportunities. Following the departure of Najee Harris, who is now with the Chargers, Warren is in a prime position to become the Steelers’ starting running back.

Warren expressed, “It was a blessing to be a part of, I wish Naj nothing but the best. It was sad, you know, for him to depart from us. But you understand that it’s a business, and you never know what’s going to happen.”

The Steelers’ decision to let Harris go reflects their confidence in Warren and their aim to infuse more speed into the position, hence they drafted Warren’s new counterpart, Kaleb Johnson.

“That’s my dog right there,” Warren stated about Johnson, who has drawn comparisons to former All-Pro player Le’Veon Bell. “We feel like he brings a lot of great attributes to the team. We’re gonna need that guy this year.”

Despite last season’s setbacks, Warren still amassed 821 all-purpose yards. This year, Pittsburgh will look to utilize his versatility as a physical back capable of making plays both on the ground and in the air, particularly with Aaron Rodgers now under center.

Fundamentals w/ Aaron Rodgers and Jaylen Warren. #Steelers tweet

Warren recognizes the opportunity to start alongside an established player like Rodgers and aims to make the most of it to help the Steelers achieve their ultimate goals.

“Obviously they kept me here and gave me a chance to be RB1. They’re confident in me taking over that role. I’m gonna do what I can in my shoes to take advantage of it.”