Jaylen Warren

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 (per Fantasy Points Data). 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 could still return RB2 value this season, but there's more risk in his 2026 projection than many will be able to admit.

Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle split the first-team reps in practice on Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

Warren and Dowdle continue to rotate who sees the first reps with the first-team. They are likely to both be involved in a committee in the Steelers backfield this season.