When it comes to playing running back in the NFL, Maurice Jones-Drew knows a thing or two, because he’s seen a thing or two. He spent nine years in the league, eight with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where established himself as an All-Pro with three Pro Bowl selections. So his take on Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren is worth consideration.
On Tuesday, Jones-Drew ranked all 32 starting running backs in the NFL. He pegged Warren at No. 29 overall.
“Najee Harris‘ departure paves the way for Warren to get a bulk of the carries for Pittsburgh for the first time in his career, and the fourth-year pro is determined to make the most of the opportunity, designing his offseason training around improving his durability,” Jones-Drew wrote.
“Warren has never reached 150 carries or 800 rush yards in an NFL season, so there’s a good chance he enjoys a career year, even if rookie Kaleb Johnson and veteran Kenneth Gainwell share the load. Yet, with the arrival of Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf, the passing game is likely to be more of a focal point in Pittsburgh,” Jones-Drew concluded.
The 26-year-old Warren is entering his fourth season with the Steelers. He signed with Pittsburgh as an undrafted free agent in 2022 after finishing his college career at Oklahoma State, where he earned Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year following his transfer from Utah State.
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Warren’s best season with the Steelers was his sophomore campaign in 2023, when he set career highs in carries (149), rushing yards (784), rushing touchdowns (4), receptions (61) and receiving yards (370).
According to Spotrac, Warren will make $5.346 million this season and will be a free agent in 2026.
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