Who Should I Start? Jaylen Warren or Kyren Williams

Monday, June 16, 3:13 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren recently noted via the team's website that he adjusted his training this offseason in anticipation of handling a larger workload in 2025. "I approached this offseason differently," said Warren. "I did a lot more things for longevity-wise...like they say, the best ability is availability." The Oklahoma State product enters his fourth season with the team and projects as the lead back for the first time in his career with former teammate Najee Harris' departure to the Los Angeles Chargers. However, he isn't the only show in town. Warren should play a substantial role in the backfield regarding touches, but rookie Kaleb Johnson projects to eventually fill the role vacated by Harris due to his similar frame. That isn't to say he'll overtake Warren, but it could mean he handles goal-line touches in time. Expect Warren to see an uptick in carries from previous seasons and play a significant role on third downs and passing situations.

Tuesday, June 17, 8:34 PM

Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times reports that Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay indicates progress has been made towards a possible extension with running back Kyren Williams. Klein also noted that there has been no update on the situation with defensive back Jalen Ramsey. Williams has been hopeful of a contract for some time now, as he looks for his pay to match his production. The Notre Dame product has new backfield competition with LA's selection of rookie Jarquez Hunter (whom they traded up for). However, it's unlikely he'll lose his stranglehold on the backfield's touches, or even that Hunter will surpass second-year teammate Blake Corum. It's still in the cards that Williams doesn't receive a long-term deal, but he'll be among the best fantasy backs again this season, and well worth an early draft pick.