Jaylen Warren has durability questioned if Steelers are 'giving him 30 touches' per game

The Pittsburgh Steelers' running back situation has sparked considerable debate following the team's decision to decline Najee Harris' fifth-year option. Many expected the team to secure Harris by picking up his option, guaranteeing him $6.79 million for the 2025 season.

The emergence of undrafted free agent Jaylen Warren in 2023 likely factored into the Steelers' decision-making process. With calls from fans for Warren to receive more carries in 2024, debates have ensued over the relative value of Harris versus Warren. Some question whether either player could thrive alone or if their success is contingent upon one another.

During an appearance on the 93.7 The Fan Morning Show, Doug Whaley weighed in on the situation. When asked about Harris' declined fifth-year option and the potential for Warren to assume a larger role, Whaley addressed the possibility of Warren becoming an every-down back for the Steelers should they part ways with Harris after the 2024 season.

"I personally don’t know, would he be a Tony Pollard? I mean, the Cowboys had that same situation a couple of years ago. I think right now, the way I look at it, have the two-pronged approach because the way Jaylen Warren runs, if I were a betting man, I would say no. His style of running, I don’t think can hold up if you are giving him 30 touches a game for 17 games. He just runs so violently that I just don’t see that being able to withstand an NFL season as a number one featured back."

Whaley's observation resonates with many Steelers fans who recognize the value of having both Harris and Warren in their arsenal. The duo's complementary playing styles enhance the team's offensive versatility. However, the prospect of relying solely on Warren raises concerns about his ability to sustain his aggressive running approach as a feature back.

Whaley draws parallels to the situation of the Dallas Cowboys with Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard. Elliott, like Harris, served as the primary back, but Pollard consistently impressed with his performances. Yet, when the Cowboys shifted away from Elliott, Pollard's production declined sharply, prompting Elliott's return. This cautionary tale suggests that parting ways with Harris could prove detrimental for the Steelers.

Harris has delivered three consecutive 1,000-plus yard rushing seasons for the Steelers, earning Pro Bowl honors in his rookie year. While his performance has seen slight regression, he remains a formidable force in the backfield, poised to thrive under Arthur Smith's new offensive scheme in 2024. Meanwhile, Warren is also primed for success under Smith's guidance, and their tandem promises to wreak havoc on opposing defenses.

Steelers' Jaylen Warren Is Likely To Stay In Pittsburgh Past 2024

Warren is poised to become a restricted free agent after the 2024 season, while Harris will enter free agency without restrictions. The Steelers are unlikely to allow Warren to depart, given their admiration for his team-first mentality and hard-hitting playing style. However, it's crucial for the team to retain another running back capable of complementing Warren and maintaining a formidable rushing attack. Securing both Harris and Warren beyond 2024 would undoubtedly be a significant victory for the organization. Yet, the decision to decline Harris' fifth-year option has raised uncertainties about his future with the team.

With an upgraded offensive line and system in place, both backs are primed for career-best performances. Should Harris deliver the anticipated standout season, it will prompt intrigue regarding the Steelers' intentions for him. Reports suggest that the decision to decline Harris' option stemmed from a desire to assess his performance within Smith's new system. Motivated to prove his worth to the Steelers, Harris will strive to secure a lucrative deal and remain with the team. Meanwhile, Warren sees a genuine opportunity to emerge as the future feature back, further fueling his determination.

As the season unfolds, it will be intriguing to observe the Steelers' strategy at the running back position and how they navigate the impending free agency of both Harris and Warren.