5 hidden gems on the Steelers roster who will surprise in 2023

Steelers hidden gem #2: Jaylen Warren

Jaylen Warren went from training camp darling a year ago to top backup and now, seemingly, a fixture in this offense. He was quickly given the “Najee Harris treatment” in camp this season, not being tackled during drills to preserve him and lower the risk of injury.

While I will be the first to say that the idea of Warren completely taking over for Harris isn’t likely, I do think that Warren is in a position to be an impact player this season. He was an efficient option with the ball in his hands last season, can block well, and is a competent receiver. He proved that he deserves a bigger bite of the apple this season.

This offense can also sustain two running backs. They have built themselves to work through the run game with Kenny Pickett still developing. That means that Warren should be in line for some more drives as the team looks to keep both backs fresh.

This isn’t the Steelers of a few seasons ago, where the backup was used sparingly. Warren getting more opportunities isn’t a dig at Harris, it just means that this team has two talented backs that should be making plays weekly. The Cowboys proved that was possible with Ezekiel Elliot and Tony Pollard, and I expect Pittsburgh to work similarly.

I will say that I expect Warren to be the bigger play threat with the ball in his hands. While he lacks elite speed, he has better burst and ability in space than Harris does. Because of this, I expect Warren to be a sneaky option for this offense and a gem for this team during the year.