Steelers' Jaylen Warren Gets Honest About Rookie Kaleb Johnson Threatening His Spot

The Pittsburgh Steelers made headlines early on Labor Day morning when they decided to extend running back Jaylen Warren. The former undrafted free agent was heading into the final year of his deal, and with the team’s running back room shifting, there was widespread curiosity about his future role. The Steelers had just drafted running back Kaleb Johnson in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, a move that immediately sparked questions about how carries would be distributed.

With Najee Harris no longer in Pittsburgh, Warren is expected to take on a larger workload in 2025. However, the presence of Johnson introduces competition, as the rookie has the potential to make an immediate impact and carve out his own role. Warren’s extension signals the team’s confidence in him, but it also comes with the understanding that he will have to continue proving himself against incoming talent eager to make a name in the Steelers’ backfield.

After signing a three-year deal worth $17.25 million, Warren spoke candidly to Steelers media about his reaction when Johnson was drafted. He admitted that while he welcomes competition, he also recognizes the challenge it presents, acknowledging that the rookie could potentially take some touches away. However, as far as being nervous or worried. He wasn't.

"No, I was not concerned like I said, I stay present in my moment and in my lane," Warren told Steelers reporters on Monday. "I was glad we drafted Kaleb, you know, he is a baller. The more weapons, the better for the team, and that is how I always move."

Warren’s honesty highlights his competitive mindset and his willingness to earn every carry, setting the tone for what could be a high-stakes and exciting running back battle in Pittsburgh for the 2025 season. Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith is entering his second year of trying to make this offense run smoothly, and the running game will be pivotal. 

Warren, Johnson, and veteran Kenneth Gainwell will all be called upon to help the offense establish a strong ground attack. Warren also expressed hope that every player on the team gets to experience the confidence of an extension and feels the organization’s belief in their abilities.

"You know I am glad it happened for me, and I hope it happens for everybody on this team," Warren said.

This new-look Steelers offense, led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver DK Metcalf, is expected to produce fireworks in the 2025 season. While expectations remain high, translating them into a truly successful offensive campaign will require Smith to make the running game a strength. The ground attack has yet to fully reach its potential under Smith, but there’s genuine reason for optimism in 2025, especially with Rodgers commanding the line of scrimmage and creating opportunities for the backfield.

Steelers' Running Game Has Sparked Some Concern Already

While some are hopeful that the running game can be a strength in 2025, early reports from training camp have highlighted struggles in getting it going. That difficulty was somewhat evident during the preseason, though it’s often hard to fully judge until the results appear on the field and the box scores start to reflect production.

Consistency will be key for the Steelers’ running game as the season unfolds, with the offensive line needing to gel, Warren and Johnson finding their rhythm, and Rodgers orchestrating drives that keep defenses off balance. This Steelers running game will be talked about big time in the 2025 season. Getting the Warren extension done is exciting for the fan base.

What was your first reaction whenever you found out the Steelers were extending Warren? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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