The Pittsburgh Steelers' Running Game to Shine Under New Coordinator Arthur Smith
With the arrival of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to pivot towards a more ground-focused offensive strategy in 2024. Smith's reputation for prioritizing the run game suggests that fans will see Pittsburgh's backfield take center stage this coming season.
However, a recent development has cast a shadow over the team's preparations. Jaylen Warren, who has been an explosive asset to the Steelers, suffered a hamstring injury during Saturday’s preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills. This injury occurred in the second quarter, where Warren caught a pass from quarterback Russell Wilson and subsequently walked off the field under his own power.
The 25-year-old running back was quickly ruled doubtful to return to the game, which ended in a 9-3 win for the Bills. Before his exit, Warren had logged three touches, accumulating 14 yards as a receiver. His premature departure undoubtedly affected Pittsburgh's offensive rhythm during the game.
Warren has been a key player for the Steelers since joining the team as an undrafted free agent in 2022. Despite going undrafted, he has carved out a significant role in the Steelers' backfield, serving as a rotational back alongside starter Najee Harris. In 2023, Warren approached 800 rushing yards and secured 61 passes for 370 receiving yards, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities out of the backfield.
While Najee Harris has been the team's lead ball-carrier for the past three seasons, surpassing 1,000 rushing yards each time, Warren is regarded as the team's most explosive player at his position. Harris's consistency and Warren's big-play potential form a dynamic one-two punch that could thrive under Smith’s run-oriented scheme.
During the preseason game against Buffalo, Harris was also active, while veteran reserves Cordarrelle Patterson and La'Mical Perine received early carries. The trio’s participation provided a glimpse into the backfield depth that Pittsburgh possesses, but Warren's presence—or absence—remains a critical factor.
Warren's injury, though concerning, did not appear severe as he walked off the field without assistance. The Steelers will be hoping their explosive back will be available when the regular season kicks off. His contributions in both rushing and receiving facets add a layer of versatility that is invaluable to the team’s offensive strategy.
Pittsburgh’s commitment to the ground game under Arthur Smith will undoubtedly place more emphasis on the health and performance of their running backs. A successful run-heavy offense will require both Harris and Warren to be at their peak. As preseason progresses, keeping a close eye on Warren’s recovery will be paramount for the Steelers' coaching staff.
With expectations high and a new offensive philosophy in place, the Steelers are positioning themselves to leverage their ground game to its fullest potential. Whether Jaylen Warren can bounce back swiftly from his preseason setback will play a crucial role in Pittsburgh's quest for dominance on the field this season.