Jaylen Warren Injury Update: Steelers Running Back Inactive vs. Vikings in Dublin

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren has been ruled inactive for Sunday’s Week 4 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland. The surprise decision was confirmed late Saturday, September 27, 2025, ahead of the NFL’s first regular-season game in Ireland.

This marks a major development for the Steelers’ offense. Warren had been listed as active throughout the week but was ruled out just hours before kickoff. His absence comes as Pittsburgh continues its international push and faces a key early-season test against Minnesota.

Jaylen Warren Injury Status and Season Context

The Steelers listed Jaylen Warren as one of five inactive players for the Dublin game. While the team has not officially detailed the reason, Warren has dealt with lower-body injuries in past seasons, including a hamstring issue during the 2024 preseason.

Warren entered the 2025 season as Pittsburgh’s RB1 after Najee Harris signed with the Los Angeles Chargers. Through three games, he logged 43 carries for 132 yards and caught 11 passes for 142 yards and one touchdown. While the numbers are modest, he has been a key piece of the Steelers’ offensive identity.

The 27-year-old running back is in his fourth NFL season. Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2022, Warren quickly proved himself as a versatile threat. In his rookie year, he posted 379 rushing yards and 214 receiving yards. He built on that with 784 rushing yards and 370 receiving yards in 2023. Last season, he produced 821 all-purpose yards despite dealing with early injury setbacks.

During the offseason, Warren spoke about changing his training routine to improve longevity. “I did a lot more things for longevity … the best ability is availability,” he told reporters in June. His unexpected inactive status now puts the Steelers’ backfield depth under pressure.

Impact on the Steelers vs. Vikings Game

With Warren sidelined, the Steelers will likely turn to backup options to carry the rushing load. Pittsburgh’s offense may need to rely more on short passing plays to compensate for the loss of its starting running back. The Vikings’ defense, known for its aggressive front seven, could test the Steelers’ run-blocking depth.

The timing is especially critical. Pittsburgh is playing in a historic setting — the first regular-season NFL game in Ireland — and was counting on Warren’s ability to control the tempo. Fans and analysts now question how the team will adapt without its lead back.

Warren’s long-term health will be watched closely. His contract value and status as RB1 make his availability a key storyline for the Steelers’ playoff hopes. A lingering injury could impact Pittsburgh’s offensive balance and increase pressure on the quarterback.

Jaylen Warren’s injury status is now the top talking point ahead of Steelers vs. Vikings. Fans hope his absence is temporary and not a sign of a deeper issue in the Steelers’ backfield.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Jaylen Warren inactive vs. Vikings?

The Steelers listed him as inactive for Sunday’s Dublin game, but the team has not given a detailed injury update.

Q2: What is Jaylen Warren’s role on the Steelers?

He is the team’s RB1 after Najee Harris left for the Chargers. Warren took over lead rushing duties in 2025.

Q3: How has Jaylen Warren performed this season?

Through three games, he has 132 rushing yards, 142 receiving yards, and one touchdown. He has yet to break out in 2025.

Q4: How does his injury affect the Steelers offense?

Pittsburgh loses its top running back, forcing backups to step up and possibly pushing the offense toward more passing plays.

Q5: What is Jaylen Warren’s NFL background?

He joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and has since become their lead back, with consistent all-purpose production.