Jaylen Warren Leads Steelers Backfield Against Colts

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren is set to handle the team's primary rushing duties against the Indianapolis Colts in their Week 5 matchup on Sunday, October 11, 2026. According to CBS Sports, Rico Dowdle was ruled inactive because of a toe injury, leaving Warren with the opportunity to continue his productive run as Pittsburgh's leading back.

Warren has capitalized on Dowdle's absence over the previous two games, recording 23 total touches in each contest and accumulating 302 yards from scrimmage, according to CBS Sports. His recent workload has established him as a central part of the Steelers' offensive approach heading into the matchup.

Warren entered the game with 309 rushing yards, ranking 10th among running backs, and averaging 5.6 yards per carry, according to a Yahoo Sports report published October 9. Those figures highlight his production on the ground through the opening four games of the season.

Indianapolis has struggled to contain opposing running backs. CBS Sports reported that the Colts had allowed 4.3 yards per carry and 11.1 yards per reception to running backs through four games. Yahoo Sports also reported that Indianapolis ranked 28th in yards allowed per rushing attempt and 30th in run stop win rate.

ESPN fantasy football analyst Eric Moody highlighted Warren's recent workload and the Colts' defensive vulnerabilities in his assessment of the matchup.

"Steelers RB Jaylen Warren has 20 touches in each of the past two games and at least 15 fantasy points in both with Rico Dowdle (toe) out," Moody wrote. "Warren now faces a Colts defense that ranks 30th in run stop win rate and has allowed the seventh-most rushing yards per game. Indianapolis has also allowed the fourth-most receiving yards per game to RBs."

Warren's involvement extends beyond rushing attempts. Yahoo Sports reported that he had received 19 targets through four games and averaged 11.0 yards per catch, giving Pittsburgh another option for advancing the ball through the passing game.

The Colts' performance against Pittsburgh's rushing attack will be a key factor in the Week 5 contest, with Indianapolis needing to contain a back who has delivered consistent production during Dowdle's two-game absence. CBS Sports reported that Warren was expected to retain his leading role for the matchup.