Steelers’ Elandon Roberts Sent A Fierce Warning To Najee Harris And Jaylen Warren

The Pittsburgh Steelers' training camp has produced some intense battles between the offense and defense. This intensity was on display when the two units clashed after quarterback Justin Fields was hit late. Defensive enforcers Patrick Queen and Elandon Roberts have been particularly vocal during camp. Queen's trash-talking has been prominent, but the running backs have not shied away from facing their challengers.

Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris have both been playing with an edge during camp. They have demonstrated impressive strength during the renowned backs on backers drill, where running backs face off against linebackers. Queen and Roberts have consistently matched up against Harris and Warren. While linebackers usually have the upper hand in this drill, Harris and Warren have held their own remarkably well.

The intensity and trash-talking remain in good spirits. After practice on Sunday, Roberts spoke with Missi Matthews, admitting that he remains fired up about the running backs well into the night. The fierce competition at the Steelers' training camp highlights the team's determination and readiness for the upcoming season.

“We going at it every day," Roberts said. "We going at it nonstop… Me and PQ we are roommates in the dorms. It’ll be like 11 o'clock at night. I will go knock on his door and be like, ‘I’m gonna knock the sh** out of them tomorrow.’ And PQ is like, ‘Alright bet.’”

Roberts is roommates with fellow linebacker Queen in Latrobe. Queen joined the Steelers after four successful seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. Queen has openly embraced his role as the defense's villain, unafraid to challenge his teammates, all in pursuit of the ultimate goal: winning a Super Bowl.

As Queen and Roberts end their day, they are unsettled by the impressive performances of running backs Harris and Warren against them. Determined to set the tone, Queen and Roberts vow to up their game in the backs on backers' drill, aiming to dominate and challenge the running backs even more fiercely.

“Last night I am laying down and PQ is like, ‘Hey man, tomorrow I am running through them. I am setting the tone. I am going to be the first one.’ We got that mentality and I am pretty sure Jaylen and Najee doing the same thing.”

The Steelers boast multiple leaders on both sides of the ball, especially on offense, a strength they have lacked in recent years. Roberts was quick to praise his running backs and is eager to see them dominate defenses in 2024.

“One thing about Jaylen and Najee. They work very hard. They set the tone for the offense man. Them guys are both great leaders. I am excited to see them both ball out this year when the offense has the ball.”

The Steelers have one of the strongest defenses in the league. Practicing against such a formidable defense will significantly benefit both Warren and Harris, preparing both sides of the ball to excel in the upcoming season. 

While no one wants to see teammates clash, the extra intensity displayed in camp has brought smiles to Steelers fans and even Head Coach Mike Tomlin. Although Tomlin admitted he wasn't a fan of the fight that took place.

Steelers' Najee Harris Playing With Extra Motivation In 2024

Harris is playing with added motivation in 2024 after Pittsburgh declined his fifth-year option. Harris has shown a great attitude and been stepping up as a leader. Meanwhile, Warren consistently plays with an edge, having fought for everything he's earned in the NFL. 

The Steelers' running backs are expected to form a physical and dominant unit in 2024, mirroring the defense's strength. With this combination, the Steelers could become a surprisingly strong team this season.

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