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“It’s Only Preseason” - Jaylen Warren Criticizes Steelers’ Standout Rookie RB After Preseason Opener

Pittsburgh, PA – Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting running back Jaylen Warren has spoken out after the team’s 31–25 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in their preseason opener.

Steelers training camp: Jaylen Warren glad 'physicality' building; sees  offensive line progress - YouTube

While Warren praised Trey Sermon for his breakout performance — racking up 63 rushing yards, a touchdown, and several powerful runs — he also issued a warning about keeping a level head.

"Trey played really well tonight. No one can take that away from him. He was strong, fast, and kept our offense moving," Warren said.

NFL free agency: Steelers sign former Colts' RB Trey Sermon

But Warren quickly shifted to a cautionary tone:

"This is only preseason 1. In the NFL, it's not just about one good game. You've got to stay humble and focus on the next one. I feel like Trey was riding a little too high after the game. That can kill a career if you don't keep it in check."

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Sermon (27) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)

According to team insiders, Warren's comments were aimed at reminding the rookie that the NFL's grind is unforgiving — and that overconfidence can be dangerous.

 A.J. Brown Publicly Hints at Steelers Move After Eagles’ First Loss of the Season
Philadelphia, PA – October 5, 2025 The Philadelphia Eagles’ first loss of the season may have exposed more than just flaws in their offense — it might have revealed a brewing rift inside the locker room. After falling 17–21 to the Denver Broncos in Week 5, frustrations spilled into the open when star wide receiver — visibly emotional on the sideline — took to social media hours after the game, posting: “Sometimes, loyalty isn’t enough. Sometimes, you just want to feel wanted.” That player, A.J. Brown, has now become the center of a developing storm in Philadelphia. Multiple league insiders confirmed that Brown privately expressed interest in a trade to the Pittsburgh Steelers — a move he reportedly sees as a “fresh start” alongside former college teammate DK Metcalf, under a more pass-oriented system. Brown’s dissatisfaction has been mounting since the start of the season. Despite the Eagles’ 4-1 record, his usage has dropped sharply, with just 16 receptions through five games. The team’s heavy reliance on the run game has left him increasingly frustrated with his role in Nick Sirianni’s offense. “I respect what we’re building here, but I’m a competitor,” Brown told reporters briefly in the locker room after the loss. “When you feel like you’re not being used to your full potential, it eats at you.” The Steelers, meanwhile, are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. After trading George Pickens to the Cowboys, Pittsburgh has been searching for a dynamic wide receiver to pair with DK Metcalf and give Aaron Rodgers another weapon. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni declined to comment on Brown’s remarks but emphasized unity, saying, “We win together, we lose together. Emotions run high, but our focus is still on the next game.” Still, tensions in Philadelphia are undeniable. What began as a disappointing Sunday loss could now ignite one of the season’s biggest trade sagas — one that could shake both the Eagles and Steelers before the midseason deadline.