As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their Week 3 game against the New England Patriots, attention is turning to the team’s running back unit. Former NFL coach and analyst Jon Gruden has weighed in, sending a pointed message to Mike Tomlin. Amid this, rookie Kaleb Johnson is struggling, raising questions about the Steelers’ strategy and depth chart heading into the game.

Here’s what Gruden had to say regarding the possibility of Jaylen Warren this Sunday: ”I think Warren needs to get 20 carries, 17-20 carries. And I think he needs to be featured in the passing game. He is their best player, skill wise, on the Steelers right now. Warren, I love Warren. They’ve gotta get number 30 going.’’ Warren has carried the ball 11 times for 37 yards against the Jets and 14 times for 48 yards against the Seahawks through Week 2 of 2025. Though he has yet to score in the end zone, his reliability at gaining yards on the ground, combined with his dependability in not losing the ball, is the reason why the Steelers look at him as their best back.

He continued, “I mean, Najee Harris touched the ball more than any man in the NFL over the last four years. He’s gone. Where are all those touches going? I think it’s Warren’s time to be featured. And I think we’re gonna see that this Sunday in Foxboro.’’ Harris’ absence makes Warren’s opportunity even larger. Najee Harris is the only current NFL player who has achieved at least 1,000 rushing yards in all of the last four seasons, including setting the record again in 2024. 

His four consecutive seasons with 1,000 yards are tied for the third-most in Steelers history. With Harris gone, the Steelers’ ground game is in need of a new support, and Warren’s combination of power, vision, and pass-catching skills makes him the man to shine. Sunday’s meeting with the Patriots presents an opportunity and a challenge for Warren and Pittsburgh.

New England leads the head-to-head with the Steelers 19-16. Warren’s play will be vital in getting the offensive flow going and keeping drives alive. Meanwhile, questions arise about the rookie quarterback’s role amid his weak performance.

Mike Tomlin to punish Kaleb Johnson

New quarterback Kaleb Johnson could be at risk for his slow beginning to the season. He is said to be likely inactive for Week 3 after a disappointing beginning to the 2025 season. Johnson received just one touch in Week 1, and in Week 2 he botched a kickoff return, which led to a Seattle touchdown. 

With the Steelers elevating Trey Sermon from the practice squad for this game, it appears that Johnson might be sidelined for the game. The Steelers coaching staff is making a loud statement: it’s about performance, and roster spots are earned. Johnson was a superstar at Iowa, but what works on Saturdays doesn’t necessarily give results on Sundays.

With Warren and Kenneth Gainwell already on the active roster, the rookie might have to take a step back to rebalance physically and mentally. This punishment is closer to situational preparedness and responsibility than rebuke. Johnson will have the chance to sit out, watch, and learn for the next opportunity, and possibly return to the trenches.

The Week 3 game at Gillette Stadium will test Warren, as well as whether the Steelers’ management can translate their plans into consistent execution.