When the Pittsburgh Steelers added undrafted free agent Jaylen Warren last year, who knew his role would become what it is today? When Warren joined the team in 2022 with the other nine undrafted free agents, the thought was he would be another camp body that would contribute in the preseason and be a good look on the scout team. Instead, Warren kept his head down and continued to show his commitment and dedication every chance he could, and it led to his role expanding.
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The Steelers have a great track record with undrafted free agents, and Warren could add to that legacy. Tons of takes at the beginning of the year stated that Warren might be better than Najee Harris. Warren saw an expanded role as Harris struggled to start the 2022 season with a Pedal Lisfranc Sprain that occurred during the 2022 training camp. This injury added a metal plate to Harris's shoe for the first six weeks of the season.
Benny Snell Jr. and Anthony McFarland Jr. were the two players that were on the roster to take the snaps of the backup role, and they certainly tried. In camp, Snell Jr. and Macfarland started above Warren on the depth chart. This did not last long however, as Warren had more snaps in every game besides the one he did not play in all season long. Although Harris is going to be the starting back, the way that Warren hits the hole is something that all fans of the Steelers find exciting.
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Warren had 5.6 yards per touch in 2022. This included rushing and receiving out of the backfield. Warren transitioned to become a third-down back and a great pass catcher out of the backfield. The backfield opened up because both Harris and Warren are both pass-catching backs. Last year, Warren participated in more than 25% of all routes run by the Steelers in 2022, having a catch rate of 85%.
Warren has been a boost to the Steelers backfield with the ability to change, and more importantly, give Harris a break. Harris was the most utilized running back in 2021, taking 980 snaps as a rookie. The ability to add this with an undrafted free agent is a great addition moving forward for the team.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation.com (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers running backs Najee Harris (#22) and Jaylen Warren (#30) on the field at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA.
When the Steelers' offense was having issues, they looked to Warren for a spark. His quick ability to pick up the offense and his work ethic are what got him this spot in the first place. Warren worked hard for everything he has, including his work at Oklahoma State before the Steelers. Warren went undrafted out of college and ended up singing with Pittsburgh. Considered undersized at his position at only 5'8", he has been fighting for his ability to play pro football and always overcoming doubters. His ability to be a perfect complement to the Steelers feature back will lead to opportunities for years to come.
How do you think Jaylen Warren will do this year? Do you think he will get more opportunities? Let us know on social media and in the comments below.
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