Jaylen Warren Week 1 Outlook - Falcons at Steelers

By Derek Brown (FantasyPros), Sun, Sep 13th 2026, 12:44pm EDT

Last season, Jaylen Warren had arguably his most productive season for fantasy purposes as the RB18 in fantasy points per game. He was his usual incredibly efficient self on a per-touch basis. In 2025, Warren ranked sixth in missed tackle rate, ninth in yards after contact per attempt, 12th in rushing success rate, third in yards per route run, and seventh in first downs per route run. He set career highs in carries (211), rushing yards (958), and total touchdowns (eight). Kenneth Gainwell moved on from Pittsburgh in the offseason, but Mike McCarthy brought in his favorite son, Rico Dowdle. Warren's role for Pittsburgh has evolved over the years from preferred passing-down back to lead back, but his role could be in flux in 2026 with the arrival of a new head coach and backfield mate. Warren can't be counted on for more than a flex play for Week 1, with his usage up in the air. If Warren does get into the end zone in Week 1, he could easily pay off as a flex, though. Atlanta was a middle-of-the-road run defense last year to close the season. In Weeks 12-18, Atlanta was 15th in stuff rate and rushing success rate allowed while also ranking 16th in yards before contact per attempt.