Jaylen Warren

Jaylen Warren Player Profile

Summary

Jaylen Warren went undrafted in the 2022 Class out of Oklahoma State University. Warren is a dynamic, versatile running back whose greatest strengths lie in receiving ability, agility, and open‑field explosiveness. While he may not have the prototypical size or brute strength of some lead backs, his skill set fits extremely well in modern offenses that value multidimensional backs. His key developmental tasks are enhancing his power‑running impact and maintaining durability under increased workload. When used right, he offers a high‑value offensive piece with upside; used improperly, he could be limited to a secondary role despite his high talent.

Strengths

  • Dual‑threat ability (run + catch): Warren excels as a receiver out of the backfield: according to PFF he ranked among the best in “receptions per route” and “avoided tackles per route.” PFF His compact build and low center of gravity help him in space after the catch, giving him good yards‑after‑contact potential when he can get into open field. steelcurtain

  • Agility, vision and open‑field burst: He demonstrates quick cuts, good change of direction, and reads for cut‑backs effectively and isn’t afraid to go airborne to hurdle defenders in the open field. His athleticism is above average for his size. His 2023 season included a 74‑yard touchdown run, showing he can break big plays when he’s in space. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Versatility & schematic fit: Warren is well‑suited for modern offenses that feature running backs who can catch and create mismatches. Coaches have noted he thrives when used in motion, on swing passes, or misdirection. He also offers value as a rotational back, potentially with fresh legs, making him useful both as a change‑of‑pace and as more of a lead back depending on the situation.

  • High floor in receiving role Because he gets more involved in the passing game than many backs his size and slot, he tends to have a higher floor in PPR formats and in real games when the run game stalls.

Weaknesses

  • Between‑the‑tackles production & power running: Despite his open‑field proficiency, Warren struggles more when carrying between the tackles in heavy contact or congested boxes. His yards after contact and missed‑tackles forced in pure rushing situations are lower compared to his receiving numbers. His shorter stature and compact build, while advantageous in space, limit his ability to churn through big defenders or break multiple tackles consistently in heavy traffic. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Durability / workload concerns: While Warren has shown resilience, as a smaller back he faces more risk of wear and tear when asked to handle heavy downhill workloads. There have been injury interruptions (e.g., knee) in his recent career. Because of the physical style and his role in both run and pass, balancing his touches and keeping him fresh will be important.

  • Goal‑line and short‑yardage limitations: Given his size and power profile, Warren may not be the ideal “battering ram” for goal‑line or heavy short‑yardage situations, which could limit his usage in certain critical down scenarios. Analysts suggest pairing him with a more physical back for that role. steelcurtain

  • Consistency of touchdown production / volume: While he has big‑play ability, converting those into consistent high‑volume production or touchdown counts has been less steady. This may be influenced by scheme, role, or red‑zone usage. PFSN

Role & Outlook

Warren projects as a modern three‑down running back with a tilt toward being a mismatch weapon in the passing game. His best usage comes when he is used in space, on screens, swing passes, or routes out of the backfield where he can maximize his strengths. Teams would be wise to pair him with a complementary back who can take hits between the tackles, allowing Warren to stay fresh and optimized for high‑leverage touches. If he can improve his between‑the‑tackle effectiveness and maintain health, Warren has the ceiling of being a leading back with high responsiveness in both facets of offensive production. If not, his floor remains very strong as a weapon in the passing game and change‑of‑pace lead back.