Steelers RB Jaylen Warren Embraces Mike McCarthy's Energy After Mike Tomlin's Departure

Warren says Tomlin's resignation 'hurt' but he's excited for new head coach's approach

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:03am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented and overlapping shapes in the Steelers' team colors of black, gold, and white, representing the transition from the Tomlin era to the McCarthy era in Pittsburgh.A new era dawns for the Steelers as players adapt to the energy of head coach Mike McCarthy after the departure of longtime leader Mike Tomlin.Today in Pittsburgh

Steelers running back Jaylen Warren was initially 'hurt' when longtime head coach Mike Tomlin stepped down in January, but the 2022 undrafted free agent says he's embracing the energy new head coach Mike McCarthy has brought to Pittsburgh's offseason program. Warren, who emerged as the Steelers' lead ball-carrier in 2025, played his first four NFL seasons under Tomlin and appreciated the coach who gave him a shot as an undrafted player. However, Warren understands Tomlin's decision and is looking forward to working with McCarthy, describing the new head coach as 'energetic' and praising his approach.

Why it matters

The Steelers are entering a new era after 19 seasons under Tomlin, who led the team to three Super Bowl appearances and one championship. Warren's perspective provides insight into how players are adjusting to the coaching change and the challenges of transitioning to a new system and leadership.

The details

Warren, who signed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2022, played four seasons under Tomlin and emerged as the team's lead running back in 2025, rushing for a career-high 958 yards and six touchdowns. Despite the Steelers' continued playoff appearances under Tomlin, they were unable to get over the hump and win another Super Bowl. With Tomlin's resignation, the team now turns to McCarthy, who brings a new energy and approach as they look to take the next step.

  • Tomlin resigned as Steelers head coach in January 2026.
  • The Steelers began their offseason program on April 7, 2026.

The players

Jaylen Warren

A running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers who signed with the team as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and emerged as their lead ball-carrier in 2025.

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who resigned in January 2026 after 19 seasons with the team.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, hired after Mike Tomlin's resignation.

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What they’re saying

“Me personally, I never thought he was the problem or whatever, but it sucks. I was -- I wouldn't say traumatized -- but it hurt, because he was the one who took me in as an undrafted [player], he gave me a shot, and that's who I was playing under for my first four years. To hear him resign, it sucked, but he had to do what he had to do.”

— Jaylen Warren, Steelers Running Back

“He's been energetic. Obviously, it's an NFL week, so he's been doing his thing as far as preparing us for what he wants and is expecting us to expect from him. It's been great. I just love the energy he brings, and I just love what he's about.”

— Jaylen Warren, Steelers Running Back

What’s next

The Steelers will continue their offseason program under new head coach Mike McCarthy as they look to build on their recent playoff appearances and take the next step towards a Super Bowl championship.

The takeaway

While Jaylen Warren was initially 'hurt' by Mike Tomlin's departure, he has embraced the energy and approach of new head coach Mike McCarthy. The transition to a new system and leadership represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the Steelers as they aim to capitalize on their recent success and take the franchise to new heights.