The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense clearly did a lot wrong on Sunday night against the Los Angeles Chargers. It was arguably Aaron Rodgers’ worst game of his entire NFL career, as he missed several big-time throws that could have swung the outcome. The Steelers ended up losing 25-10, but with better offensive execution, they had every chance to win. The offensive struggles highlighted ongoing concerns about play-calling, timing, and the ability to get the football to the right players in critical moments.
Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers fumbles in the end zone just before he is sacked by linebacker Khalil Mack for a safety in the Chargers’ 25-10 win Sunday at SoFi Stadium.
One of the biggest critiques from the game was Jaylen Warren’s limited usage. He carried the football just 14 times, gaining 70 rushing yards, and added two receptions for 21 receiving yards. For a running back of his talent and versatility, those numbers underscore a larger issue: Warren simply isn’t being featured enough in the Steelers’ offensive game plan. Former Steelers stars, including Ben Roethlisberger, have openly criticized Head Coach Mike Tomlin and Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith for not giving Warren a larger role in the offense.
Adding to the conversation, Steelers insider Gerry Dulac revealed in a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article that Rodgers has expressed a desire to get Warren more involved, preferring him over Kenneth Gainwell in most situations. This sentiment echoes what many fans and analysts have been saying all offseason: Warren is the dynamic playmaker the Steelers need on the field more often. If Pittsburgh wants to maximize its offensive potential, finding ways to get Warren the football consistently could be a game-changing adjustment.
"I’d love to see Jaylen [Warren] on first, second or third down, but I love seeing Kenny on first, second, third down, too," Rodgers said. "They’re a luxury, those two guys. I think we need to keep getting Jaylen more runs on first and second down and mix them in on third down. But Kenny's done a great job on third down for us."
Gainwell has played very well for the Steelers and has made the most of every opportunity he has been given. This is not a slight at him. Rodgers has made it clear that Gainwell can still be mixed in, even on critical downs like third. However, Rodgers would like to see Warren start more drives on first and second down specifically.
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Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell looks on during a training camp practice in Latrobe, PA.
Warren would also see action on third down, but Rodgers wanted to emphasize that he still values having Gainwell on the field. Overall, this is more of a compliment to how important and productive Rodgers believes Warren is in this offense. Rodgers is not the only Steeler who would like to see Warren get the football more. Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth also gave an interesting and telling quote on the subject.
"He’s untackle-able," Freiermuth said. "He’s a guy you can get the ball in his hand in any circumstances. He can break tackles and win."
Steelers Need To Use Jaylen Warren As Bell Cow
The Steelers need to use Warren as a bell cow. Elite backs like Christian McCaffrey routinely get 20-plus touches a game, and Warren has shown he can be just as productive, even with far fewer opportunities.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Running back Jaylen Warren scores a touchdown for the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Los Angeles Rams.
Warren’s efficiency with limited touches proves he can do even more if given the chance. Many pundits believe Smith and this Steelers offense need to get him the football more to maximize their production.
Of course, there is also the risk that giving Warren the ball more could reduce his efficiency. However, many believe this is a risk the Steelers need to take at this stage of the 2025 season.
Do you agree with Aaron Rodgers and Pat Freiermuth that Jaylen Warren needs to be getting the football more? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me. I will respond!
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