Is Kenneth Gainwell moving ahead of Jaylen Warren on the Pittsburgh Steelers' running back depth chart?

Mike Moraitis

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Is Kenneth Gainwell passing Jaylen Warren on Pittsburgh Steelers' RB depth chart? image

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TL;DR

  • Jaylen Warren's usage is a point of contention for the Steelers' offense this season.
  • Kenneth Gainwell's involvement and production are justified, holding a strong receiving role.
  • Despite Gainwell out-producing Warren in Week 12, Warren remains the Steelers' starter.
  • The Steelers are committed to a roughly 50/50 split between Gainwell and Warren.

The usage of running back Jaylen Warren has been a significant point of contention for the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense this season.

Even while performing at a high level, there have been instances this season where Warren has been absent from the offense, despite playing well. His limited involvement in the passing game and on third downs has also been a point of contention.

The Steelers' commitment to involving backup running back Kenneth Gainwell is justified, given his demonstrated ability to be a productive playmaker when utilized.

He actually holds the fourth spot for receiving yards on the team and shares the lead in receptions with DK Metcalf, which also points to issues with Pittsburgh's pass-catchers aside from Metcalf.

After Gainwell out-snapped and out-produced Warren in the Week 12 loss to the Chicago Bears, ESPN's Bill Barnwell explored the idea that Gainwell might be passing Warren on the depth chart.

Ultimately, he ruled that is not the case.

Kenneth Gainwell is passing Jaylen Warren on the Steelers' RB depth chart. OVERREACTION. Gainwell had 92 rushing yards to Warren's 68 on Sunday, and he added 30 receiving yards on six catches. But Warren still had nearly twice as many carries (18 to 10) and the Steelers still view him as their starter and their main back. They do love Gainwell and enjoy using their running backs and tight ends, so hold on to Gainwell if you have him. But don't expect him to suddenly become Pittsburgh's featured back.

Barnwell points out that Warren received eight more carries than Gainwell on Sunday, and had two more total touches, with Warren getting 18 compared to Gainwell's 16.

Furthermore, it's worth noting that the Steelers trailed throughout the second half, a scenario favorable for Gainwell, who, as previously stated, serves as the Steelers' main back for receiving passes.

While this hardly proves the Steelers are transitioning the backfield's leadership to Gainwell, it does indicate Pittsburgh's commitment to a roughly equal 50/50 split.

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Editorial Team