Steelers RB Jaylen Warren Embraces New Era Under Coach McCarthy

As Pittsburgh transitions from Mike Tomlin to Mike McCarthy, Warren sees opportunity to revive the team's running game.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:29pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a Steelers football game or practice, with sharp, overlapping planes of black, gold, and steel blue representing the team's transition to a new era under coach Mike McCarthy.A cubist interpretation of the Steelers' new era, with running back Jaylen Warren at the center of the team's evolving identity.Today in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren is embracing the team's transition to new head coach Mike McCarthy, expressing optimism about the potential return of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the addition of bruising runner Rico Dowdle to the backfield. Warren, who emerged as the team's leading rusher in 2025, believes the Steelers can improve their ground game and return to their winning ways after a disappointing playoff exit.

Why it matters

The Steelers are at a crossroads, having parted ways with long-time coach Mike Tomlin and now looking to rebuild under the leadership of Mike McCarthy. As a key offensive player, Jaylen Warren's perspective provides insight into the team's mindset and plans for the future, which could have significant implications for the franchise's trajectory.

The details

After a solid 2025 season in which he rushed for 958 yards and 6 touchdowns, Warren is excited about the prospect of playing under new head coach Mike McCarthy and potentially reuniting with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who McCarthy has expressed interest in bringing to Pittsburgh. The Steelers also added running back Rico Dowdle to the backfield, which Warren believes will help improve the team's ground game, which struggled in 2025, finishing 26th in the league in rushing yards.

  • The Steelers parted ways with long-time head coach Mike Tomlin at the end of the 2025 season.
  • Mike McCarthy was hired as the Steelers' new head coach in January 2026.
  • The Steelers signed running back Rico Dowdle in free agency this offseason.

The players

Jaylen Warren

A running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers who emerged as the team's leading rusher in 2025, with 958 yards and 6 touchdowns on the ground.

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who parted ways with the team after the 2025 season.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, hired in January 2026 to lead the team in a new direction.

Aaron Rodgers

A four-time NFL MVP quarterback who played under Mike McCarthy in Green Bay and is being considered as a potential addition to the Steelers' roster.

Rico Dowdle

A running back signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency this offseason, who is expected to join Jaylen Warren in the backfield.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited about the potential of Rodgers coming here. He's a great quarterback, and I think he could really help us turn things around. But at the end of the day, I'm just focused on doing my job and supporting whoever is under center.”

— Jaylen Warren, Running Back, Pittsburgh Steelers

“We're looking to revive the running game and get back to our roots. Jaylen and Rico are going to be a powerful one-two punch, and I'm confident we can improve our ground attack next season.”

— Mike McCarthy, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers

What’s next

The Steelers will continue to evaluate their roster and make additional moves to strengthen the team ahead of the 2026 NFL season. The potential addition of Aaron Rodgers and the development of the running game will be key storylines to watch as the team transitions to the McCarthy era.

The takeaway

Jaylen Warren's optimism and adaptability will be crucial as the Steelers navigate a new era under head coach Mike McCarthy. The team's ability to revive its running game and potentially add a star quarterback like Aaron Rodgers could be the keys to their success in the coming season.