Main Photo: Jim Dedmon Imagn Images

Mike Tomlin Reveals Plans For Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By David Latham | Last updated Sep 3, 2025 1:12 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers used a third-round pick on running back Kaleb Johnson , but veteran Jaylen Warren may be the player you want to roster in fantasy football. Fresh off a new extension, the former undrafted free agent is set to start with Najee Harris in Los Angeles.

Recently, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media and told everyone that Warren will be his unquestioned starter for the 2025 season.

“His progress has been very evident and he’s to be congratulated,” Tomlin said. “…Certainly he’ll be our featured runner. Certainly you’ll see [backups Kaleb Johnson and Kenneth Gainwell], but at what time and at what degree [will depend].”

Aug 21, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (30) talks to his teammates on the bench during the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Allison Lawhon-Imagn Images

Mike Tomlin Speaks on Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson Fantasy Football Usage

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, as veterans generally play over rookies, especially early in the season. While first-round picks can often jump to the front of the depth chart, Johnson was a third-round pick and must earn his playing time. Jaylen Warren will be the starter at the beginning of the season, but nobody should be surprised if Johnson is the more valuable fantasy football option by the end of the season.

Interestingly enough, Johnson is currently third on the official depth chart behind Warren and journeyman Kenneth Gainwell. This is probably nothing more than just noise, as Tomlin tries to motivate his rookie and show him that nothing is earned in the NFL. If Johnson is actually backing up Gainwell beyond Week 1 or 2, something could be seriously wrong with his long-term outlook. Look for Warren to be the primary back early in the season, but expect Johnson to earn a larger share of the workload as the season progresses.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: