Jaylen Warren Earns First AFC Offensive Player of the Week Award After Historic Steelers Performance
Jaylen Warren was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week after leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 34-22 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Warren recorded a career-high 188 yards from scrimmage, including 101 rushing and 87 receiving yards, along with two touchdowns. His performance marked the first time in 40 years a player scored a rushing touchdown of at least 50 yards and a receiving touchdown of at least 80 yards in the same game. This is Warren’s first such award, and he is the first Steelers player to receive the honor since Ben Roethlisberger in 2020.
Key points
- Jaylen Warren won the AFC Offensive Player of the Week award for his performance in Week 5.
- Warren recorded 188 total yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns against the Colts.
- He became the first player in 40 years to score a 50+ yard rushing and 80+ yard receiving touchdown in one game.
- The Steelers won the game 34-22, with quarterback Aaron Rodgers throwing three touchdowns.
- Warren is the first Steelers player to earn this award since Ben Roethlisberger in 2020.
Background
Warren has emerged as the primary offensive anchor for the Steelers following a historic performance in Week 5. Previous coverage noted that head coach Mike McCarthy indicated Warren would retain the majority of the workload despite the anticipated return of Rico Dowdle. The award follows a trend of strong AFC offensive performances, including Drake Maye’s Week 4 recognition and Josh Allen’s recent accolades.
How outlets are covering it
NBC Sports highlighted the historic nature of Warren’s dual touchdown achievement, noting he is the sixth player in league history to accomplish this feat. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette emphasized the broader team performance, grading Warren’s play as 'elite' and noting his consistency over three consecutive games with over 100 yards from scrimmage. While NBC focused on the individual award and historical milestone, the Post-Gazette contextualized Warren’s success within the Steelers’ overall offensive resurgence and defensive improvements, such as limiting the Colts to a single touchdown.
Why it matters
Warren’s award signals a shift in the Steelers’ offensive identity, with the team relying heavily on his versatility as both a runner and receiver. His historic performance and consistent production suggest he may be a key factor in the Steelers’ playoff contention this season. Additionally, the award underscores the growing importance of hybrid skill positions in the NFL, as players like Warren are increasingly valued for their ability to impact games through both rushing and receiving.
What to watch
The Steelers are scheduled to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 6. Warren’s continued performance will be crucial for the team’s offensive success, and his ability to maintain his high level of play will be a key factor in determining the Steelers’ trajectory in the second half of the season.
- Jaylen Warren wins first AFC offensive player of the week award NBC Sports
- NFL Announces Major News About Steelers RB Jaylen Warren Yahoo Sports
- Steelers Week 5 grades: Elite outings for Aaron Rodgers, six others against the Colts Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
- Injuries forced the Steelers to adapt. The offense found an identity in the process - The Athletic The New York Times
- Warren wins AFC Offensive Player of the Week Steelers.com
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