Sharing backfield with Warren
Dowdle, who signed with the Steelers in March, is set to work in tandem with Jaylen Warren this coming season, Kevin Hutchinson of steelersnow.com reports.
On the heels of back-to-back seasons (one with Dallas and one with Carolina) during which he topped 1,000 rushing yards, Dowdle bolsters a Steelers backfield that saw Kenneth Gainwell depart via free agency this offseason. It remains to be seen how the carries/targets will be divided between Warren and Dowdle in 2026, but the two players' different skill sets could lead to a "thunder and lightning" approach utilizing Warren's shiftiness and quickness and Dowdle's bruising style. Also in the mix for complementary touches are 2025 third-rounder Kaleb Johnson and versatile rookie Eli Heidenreich, with added context regarding Pittsburgh's backfield approach set to arrive once team drills commence in training camp.
More Pittsburgh Steelers Fantasy Football News
DK Metcalf
Back for Year 2 with Steelers
As the 2026 season approaches, Metcalf is set to remain featured in a Pittsburgh WR corps that also includes trade acquisition Michael Pittman and 2026 second-rounder Germie Bernard, Mark Kaboly of 93.7 The Fan Pittsburgh reports.
Darnell Washington
Lands four-year extension
The Steelers and Washington agreed to terms on a four-year, $42 million extension Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Darnell Washington
Past forearm injury
Washington (forearm) is participating in OTAs this week, Mark Kaboly of 93.7 The Fan Pittsburgh reports.
Jaylen Warren
Slims down to 205 pounds
Warren said Thursday that he's down to 205 pounds this season, Chris Adamski of TribLive.com reports.
Pat Freiermuth
Has contract restructured
The Steelers and Freiermuth agreed to a restructured contract Saturday, Nick Farabaugh of PennLive.com reports.
Aaron Rodgers
Plans to retire after 2026
Rodgers said Wednesday that 2026 will be his final NFL season, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.
Drew Allar
Participating on first day of OTAs
Allar (ankle) was the fourth quarterback through drills Monday on the first day of OTAs, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.
Mason Rudolph
Out of 2026 starting mix
Rudolph will be relegated to a backup role again in 2026, as Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year contract with the Steelers on Monday.
Aaron Rodgers
Makes deal with Steelers official
Rodgers officially signed a one-year contract with the Steelers on Monday.
Aaron Rodgers
Slated to return to Pittsburgh
Rodgers and the Steelers are expected to agree on a one-year contract, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. The deal will be worth up to $25 million, according to Schefter.