With Najee Harris signing with the Los Angeles Chargers this offseason, Jaylen Warren became the clear cut No. 1 running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Warren split the backfield with Harris for the last three seasons and has recorded over 500 rushing yards and 300 receiving yards in each of the last two seasons. The Steelers added running back Kenneth Gainwell in the offseason, and he’s split some time in the backfield with Warren. Warren has been featured as RB1 for most of the season.
What Happened to Jaylen Warren?
During Sunday’s win against the Cincinnati Bengals, Jaylen Warren injured his ankle in the third quarter. Warren caught a pass, was tackled by Bengals defensive back Jordan Battle, and limped off the field with a trainer. As a result of his injury, Warren did not return back to the game.
Will Jaylen Warren Play In Week 12?
As of right now, Jaylen Warren’s status for the team’s Week 12 game against the Chicago Bears is in question. Warren told reporters that he felt good enough to return back to Sunday’s game, but played it smart by remaining sidelined. Head coach Mike Tomlin said he’s ‘optimistic’ about Warren playing in Week 12.
Jaylen Warren Fantasy Outlook
On the season, Jaylen Warren has 123 carries for 536 yards and a pair of rushing touchdowns in nine games played. Additionally, he has 25 receptions for 219 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown. Warren is 20th in the league in rushing yards and is the Steelers’ leading rusher, and is fourth in receiving yards.
Warren splits the backfield with Kenneth Gainwell, but it is the lead back when healthy. He’s had five games this season where he’s rushed for at least 50 yards.
Best Fantasy Replacements If Jaylen Warren Misses This Week
With it being Week 12 in the 2025-2026 NFL season, there aren’t many replacements for Jaylen Warren if you must find one this weekend. If Sean Tucker is available, pick him up after he scored three touchdowns for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week.
Two more solid options include Jacksonville Jaguars backup running back Bhayshul Tuten, and Green Bay Packers running back Emmanuel Wilson. Tuten had career highs in rushing attempts (15) and rushing yards (74) in the Jags’ win against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. Wilson will start in place for an injured Josh Jacobs this weekend.
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