Why Didn’t RB Jaylen Warren Play in Steelers’ Game Against Vikings in Dublin?

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren did not play in Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings at Dublin’s Croke Park due to a knee injury. The 26-year-old rusher was ruled inactive after being limited in practice throughout the week. His absence forced the Steelers to reshuffle their backfield for their first overseas trip in 12 years.

Warren was initially listed as a resting veteran early in the week, but the team later added a knee injury designation. Head coach Mike Tomlin marked him as questionable on Friday, but he was officially declared inactive ahead of kickoff.

Jaylen Warren’s Knee Injury and Steelers’ Running Back Changes

The Steelers entered Week 4 with Warren as their feature back for the first time in his three-year NFL career. He earned the starting job after Najee Harris left in free agency, leading the team with 132 rushing yards on 43 carries through three games. Warren also added 11 receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown, showing his dual-threat value.

However, after limited practice participation due to knee discomfort, the coaching staff decided to sit him out for Sunday’s international matchup. According to the Associated Press, Warren’s status shifted late in the week as his knee issue became a bigger concern. Coach Tomlin’s final injury report listed him as questionable, but he was downgraded to inactive on game day.

With Warren sidelined, newly signed veteran Kenny Gainwell got the starting nod. Gainwell, who joined Pittsburgh in March after four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, entered the game with just 16 carries for 55 yards and one touchdown this season. Rookie Kaleb Johnson, a third-round draft pick, was also expected to see more touches after limited snaps so far in 2025. Additionally, the Steelers elevated Trey Sermon from the practice squad to add depth in the running back rotation.

The team also faced other roster hits. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. missed his third straight game with a hamstring injury, while edge rusher Alex Highsmith did not travel due to his own injury. Offensive lineman Andrus Peat and defensive end Esezi Otomewo were also among the inactives. Nick Herbig started in place of Highsmith.

Impact on the Steelers’ Offense and Game Strategy

Losing Warren impacted the Steelers’ offensive balance. He had been the go-to rusher and a key safety valve in the passing game. Without him, Pittsburgh leaned on Gainwell’s versatility but lacked the explosive running and receiving production Warren provided in the first three weeks.

This sudden change forced offensive coordinator Arthur Smith to adjust the game plan, giving more opportunities to Gainwell and potentially involving the rookie Johnson in early downs. It also meant quarterback Russell Wilson needed to rely more on the passing game and short-yardage plays.

The Steelers’ running game depth will be closely watched going forward. If Warren’s knee issue lingers, Gainwell could keep the starting job, but the team might need to add more options for long-term stability.

Jaylen Warren’s absence in Dublin was a blow for the Steelers’ offense. The team hopes his knee injury is short-term so he can return as the feature back in future weeks.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why didn’t RB Jaylen Warren play in Steelers’ game?

He was inactive due to a knee injury after being limited in practice all week and downgraded on game day.

Q2: Who started at running back for the Steelers instead of Warren?

Veteran Kenny Gainwell started in place of Jaylen Warren against the Vikings.

Q3: How serious is Jaylen Warren’s knee injury?

The team has not released full details, but his status went from questionable to inactive on Sunday. His return depends on recovery.

Q4: What other Steelers players were inactive in Dublin?

Joey Porter Jr., Alex Highsmith, Andrus Peat, and Esezi Otomewo were also inactive along with Warren.

Q5: Who else could get more carries while Warren is out?

Rookie Kaleb Johnson and practice squad call-up Trey Sermon may see more opportunities behind Kenny Gainwell.