Mike Tomlin Publicly Commends Jaylen Warren for Outstanding Minicamp Performance

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has publicly praised running back Jaylen Warren for his impressive showing during the team’s mandatory minicamp this June. Warren, a former undrafted free agent, continues to solidify his status as a legitimate candidate for the RB1 role, with Tomlin highlighting both his performance and mentality.

“He steps onto the field every day with unmatched focus,” Tomlin said. “Jaylen’s the type of guy you want leading your offense.”

From Backup to Breakout Star?

For much of his young career, Warren has played second fiddle to former first-round pick Najee Harris. But after outperforming Harris in nearly every advanced metric in 2024 — including yards per carry, breakaway runs, and receiving efficiency — and with Harris’s fifth-year option declined, the Steelers appear to be shifting their backfield balance.

Warren has embraced the opportunity with confidence and determination.

“I’m not waiting for the title of RB1 — I’m training every day like I’ve already earned it,” Warren said earlier this offseason.

Fantasy Football Impact

Warren’s rise isn’t just a roster storyline — it’s turning heads in the fantasy football community. With Najee Harris trending downward, Warren is now viewed as one of the top fantasy football sleepers for 2025. His versatility in the passing game makes him especially valuable in PPR formats.

Should Warren take over lead duties, his touch volume and red zone usage could spike — making him a high-upside pick in middle rounds.

Strategic and Financial Implications

With the league-wide trend of minimizing NFL contract guarantees for running backs, the Steelers may be positioning themselves for a more cost-efficient offense. Warren remains on his rookie deal, freeing up financial flexibility elsewhere on the roster — including future extensions for stars like T.J. Watt or Patrick Queen.

Meanwhile, Harris’s future with the team grows more uncertain by the day. Unless he stages a major comeback this summer, he could be looking at a limited role — or even a trade deadline exit.

Bettors and Analysts Are Watching

Sportsbooks and NFL betting apps have begun to adjust props and odds surrounding the Steelers’ offense. If Warren locks in the RB1 job, expect his player prop lines to increase — especially in rushing yards and receptions per game.

Combined with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback and a retooled offensive line, Warren could become a central figure in one of the NFL’s most intriguing offenses heading into 2025.

Tomlin Doesn’t Hand Out Praise Lightly

Mike Tomlin has always been reserved when it comes to individual praise. So when he speaks this strongly about a player, it carries weight — especially for a young back who wasn’t even drafted.

It may be early, but all signs point to Jaylen Warren becoming the Steelers’ RB1, both in title and workload. And if his minicamp performance is any indication, he’s not just ready — he’s demanding it.

More to Read:

• Fantasy Football Sleepers 2025: Why Jaylen Warren Belongs on Every List