Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren is expected to receive more playing time than newcomer Rico Dowdle at the start of the season, according to beat writer Ray Fittipaldo.
Fittipaldo said Warren has earned the right to be the team's starting running back. He also noted that Warren is the best receiving and pass-protecting back on the roster now that Kenneth Gainwell has departed.
The writer suggested Warren could stay on the field for most situations, with Dowdle used in limited series to give Warren a rest. Dowdle is not expected to take over third-down duties.
Dowdle rushed for more than 1,000 yards in each of the past two seasons, first with Dallas under Mike McCarthy and then with Carolina. Warren also exceeded 900 rushing yards last year while handling over 200 carries.
Training camp begins next week, when the competition for carries is set to play out.