The Pittsburgh Steelers added a key contributor to their injury report before their “Monday Night Football” clash with the Miami Dolphins.
Pittsburgh listed Jaylen Warren as questionable for the Week 15 game due to an illness. The running back has fully practiced all week before Monday morning’s concerning late development.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that Warren woke up feeling sick. He’s receiving fluids and hopes to play.
Assuming a featured role in place of Najee Harris, Warren has tallied 929 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns in 12 games this season. The 27-year-old has found the end zone in three straight games, scoring a key 38-yard touchdown reception in Pittsburgh’s crucial Week 14 win over the Baltimore Ravens.
If he’s able to play, Warren could have a huge primetime opportunity against a Dolphins defense that has allowed 4.8 yards per carry this season. But Miami has turned the corner from a disastrous start, allowing 53 combined points over an ongoing four-game winning streak.
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The Steelers won’t want to lose a vital playmaker ahead of another game with massive AFC North implications. Warren’s absence would likely create more opportunities for Kenneth Gainwell, who has garnered 657 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns this season.
An inactive Warren may also lead Mike Tomlin to give more reps to Kaleb Johnson. The rookie has played just three snaps in each of the last two games and has 65 rushing yards on 26 attempts this season.
Monday’s game starts at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.
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