As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the 2024 NFL season, the focus is squarely on their ground game. Under the guidance of their new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, the Steelers are expected to prioritize a run-heavy strategy. This approach has been a hallmark of Smith's offensive schemes, and it's poised to play a crucial role in Pittsburgh's offensive identity this season.
The Warren Setback
However, the plan has hit an early snag. On Saturday, during a preseason clash with the Buffalo Bills, veteran running back Jaylen Warren suffered a hamstring injury that is likely to sideline him for several weeks. This injury not only jeopardizes Warren's availability for the season opener but also raises concerns about the depth and resilience of the Steelers' backfield.
Warren, who joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2022, has rapidly established himself as a dynamic presence in Pittsburgh’s running game. At 25 years old, Warren's ability to split carries with lead running back Najee Harris has been instrumental in maintaining a balanced offensive attack. In the previous season, he came close to 800 rushing yards and contributed significantly in the passing game with 61 receptions for 370 receiving yards.
Impact on the Team
In the preseason game against the Bills, Warren logged three touches and accumulated 14 yards as a receiver before exiting with his injury. He managed to walk off the field under his own power but was swiftly ruled doubtful to return to the game. This development places added pressure on Najee Harris and the other backfield options to fill the void left by Warren's absence. Harris, who has consistently surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark in each of his three seasons with the Steelers, will likely carry an even heavier load in the interim.
The game against the Bills, which the Steelers lost 9-3, also saw contributions from veteran reserves Cordarrelle Patterson and La'Mical Perine. Both players will need to step up in Warren's absence, providing depth and versatility to a backfield that will be closely monitored by the coaching staff during the remaining weeks of the preseason.
Looking Ahead
With several weeks still left before the regular season kicks off, the Steelers' coaching staff will be focused on Jaylen Warren's rehabilitation process. His recovery timeline is crucial for the team's offensive plans. Arthur Smith’s strategy hinges not just on having a powerful ground game but also on utilizing multiple backfield options to keep defenses guessing and maintain balance.
The Steelers' aspirations for 2024 will heavily depend on how effectively they can execute their run-first approach. The loss of Warren, even temporarily, is a significant blow, but it also presents an opportunity for others to showcase their abilities and step into more prominent roles.
In summary, as Pittsburgh navigates the final stretch of the preseason, all eyes will be on how the backfield adapts and overcomes the challenges posed by Jaylen Warren's injury. The effectiveness of the running game, under Arthur Smith's watchful eye, will undoubtedly be a determining factor in the Steelers' success in the upcoming season.