Steelers' Mike Tomlin Gives Big Update On Jaylen Warren's Injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2024 season with high hopes of boasting one of the top rushing attacks in the league. However, through the first five weeks, that hasn't materialized, largely due to injuries. The offensive line, a key factor in the success of the run game, has been decimated.

Najee Harris has shouldered the bulk of the workload, as Jaylen Warren has struggled with injuries. Warren was hurt in the preseason and clearly entered the season at less than full strength. In the game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Mike Tomlin had to pull him out, even though Warren didn’t want to leave, showing his determination but also highlighting his ongoing health concerns.

Warren has missed time, and his return would be a significant boost for the Steelers' running game. When Tomlin spoke to the media on Tuesday, he expressed doubts about Warren's availability for Week 6 against the Las Vegas Raiders. However, by Friday, Tomlin offered a more optimistic update, contradicting his earlier comments and providing hope for Warren's potential return.

"He was a full participant today. Good trajectory on the upswing. I’m feeling optimistic about his inclusion. He’s listed as questionable."

Another significant injury to the Steelers' running back room was veteran Cordarrelle Patterson, who went down during the game against the Indianapolis Colts. Although Patterson is nearing the end of his career, he had still been a valuable contributor in both the running and passing games. The Steelers leaned on him heavily, especially in Warren's absence, and his injury further slowed the ground attack.

Getting Patterson back would provide a much-needed boost to the offense. However, he’s been ruled out for the Raiders game as he continues to deal with an ankle injury, and it remains unclear when he can return. On the other hand, the outlook for Warren seems more optimistic. 

Warren has expressed that he feels ready to play, though he’s known for his toughness and willingness to push through injuries. Tomlin and the Steelers are clearly taking a cautious approach with him, given his ongoing health struggles throughout the 2024 season. It will be interesting to see if Warren is able to suit up on Sunday.

Steelers' Najee Harris Has Struggled In 2024

Harris was expected to have a breakout season in the new system, backed by an improved offensive line. However, that hasn’t been the case through 2024, as he’s averaging just 3.3 yards per carry. In contrast, Patterson had been averaging 5.8 yards per carry and was proving to be a reliable option, especially in critical situations.

During the 2024 offseason, many fans and analysts expected the Steelers to pick up Harris' fifth-year option, making the team's decision not to do so a surprise. This move means Harris is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season, potentially marking the end of his time in Pittsburgh. 

Despite rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons and never missing a game, some believe Harris has underachieved during his tenure with the Steelers. Many fans are also disappointed with his performance so far in 2024. While not all of the struggles are on Harris, he’s taken responsibility for the results.

Warren and Harris complement each other well, and when Harris has been the lone option, the running game has struggled. Getting Warren back would provide a much-needed boost. There’s growing optimism that Warren could play on Sunday, which would be a significant help for a run game in desperate need of a spark.

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