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Jaylen Warren is part of the Pittsburgh Steelers' running back committee. Warren will aim for a better season, especially with Russell Wilson as the team's new starting quarterback.
Ahead of the Steelers' 2024 regular season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, let's take a look at Warren's fantasy viability and provide an injury update on the Pittsburgh RB.
Should fantasy managers be worried about the Steelers running back?
No, fantasy football managers should not be worried about Jaylen Warren. The Pittsburgh Steelers running back should be available for Week 1, as he's optimistic of playing in the season opener.
Jaylen Warren averaged 5.5 yards per touch, had a 31.9% evaded-tackles-per-touch rate and took 8.1% of his carries for 15+ yards. He also added 4.65 yards created per touch, with all these stats ranking in the top five for his position. However, he only touched the ball 210 times in 2023, which is rather low.
It's important to note that fantasy football managers who drafted Warren didn't do so to get a mover or shaker. The Steelers' running back is simply a player adept at performing better than expected based on his ADP. Warren is a decent pass catcher and could get more targets in a Russell Wilson (or Justin Fields)-led offense.
Jaylen Warren's injury update
According to Pro Football Network, the Oklahoma State product was initially not believed to be ready for the season opener because of a hamstring strain sustained in preseason. However, Warren has proclaimed himself ready for Week 1.
This is a major plus for the Steelers, as Warren is typically part of a one-two punch at running back alongside Najee Harris. Warren is the better pass catcher of the two and has a penchant for making explosive plays on the gridiron. Warren finished with 61 receptions last season and doubled his total touches (210) from his rookie year (105).
The Steelers start their season with a game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, with kick-off at 1 p.m. ET on Fox. Their fans will be hoping for a solid start to a season that promises so much for the franchise.
