Steelers sign RB Jaylen Warren to 2-year contract extension, agent says

Key Takeaways:

• Jaylen Warren and the Steelers reached a two-year contract extension before the season opener.
• Warren was a restricted free agent this past offseason, receiving a second-round tender.
• Warren signed with Pittsburgh as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and carved out a vital offensive role.
• His best season came in 2023, topping 1,000 yards from scrimmage and tallying four rushing touchdowns.
• The Steelers’ confidence in Warren contributed to the departure of Najee Harris in free agency.

A Key Extension Announced

Running back Jaylen Warren and the Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to a two-year contract extension, according to Warren’s agent, David Canter, who shared the news on social media Monday. Warren, 26, was set to become a free agent next March, and he had been tendered by the Steelers during the offseason with a second-round tag worth $5.346 million.

From Undrafted to Indispensable

Warren joined the team in 2022 as an undrafted free agent and quickly made an impact. In his first two seasons, he served primarily as a complementary back, but steadily increased his share of carries. The 2025 season marks his fourth year on the roster—his first as the undisputed starter.

A Breakout 2023 Season

The 2023 season was Warren’s most productive to date. He surpassed 1,000 yards from scrimmage, rushing for 784 yards and adding another 370 yards on 61 receptions. He also recorded a career-high four rushing touchdowns, cementing his reputation as a reliable dual-threat in the Steelers’ offense.

Change in the Backfield

Warren’s emergence helped pave the way for the organization to part ways with Najee Harris in free agency. Although the Steelers drafted Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson in the third round, Warren’s proven performance in the backfield ensured he would be the primary starter heading into the new season.

Beating the Deadline

The Steelers maintain a long-standing practice of ceasing contract negotiations once the regular season begins. With Pittsburgh’s first game scheduled for Sunday at the New York Jets, finalizing Warren’s deal before the opener was essential. The agreement cements his role and gives both player and team certainty for the upcoming campaign.