While Najee Harris' status for Sunday's game against the Falcons is unknown, the Steelers' running game will be getting a boost this weekend.
Jaylen Warren returned to practice Wednesday and then told reporters postgame that he will play Sunday.
"I feel good," Warren said after Wednesday's practice. "Doctors cleared me. I'm ready to go."
Warren has done well in a backup role behind Harris this season, picking up 190 yards on the ground on 38 carries (5.0 yards an attempt) and 137 yards receiving on 16 receptions. The undrafted rookie has been one of the bright spots on this offense, being able to give Harris breathers and make an impact with his pass blocking.
Warren suffered a hamstring injury in the first quarter of the Steelers' Week 11 loss to the Bengals and did not practice at all last week.
Harris suffered an oblique injury in Monday's win over the Colts. Mike Tomlin said Tuesday there was no immediate long-term worry over the injury. Harris did not practice Wednesday.
If Harris is unable to play, Warren would likely get his first professional start.
"It's frustrating to see any of the teammates down, but you know, next man up," Warren said.
The "next man up" mentality was clear Monday against the Colts. Benny Snell and Anthony McFarland Jr. combined for 92 yards on 18 carries, mostly in Harris' absence.
"[I got] a lot of joy from that," Warren said. "It's a great thing to see. As a collective, we're producing... It's cool to see us taking advantage of those opportunities."
