Steelers RB Warren inactive vs Vikings, Gainwell to carry workload

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren was ruled inactive for Sunday’s Week 4 game against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland, after a knee issue limited him in practice late in the week. The team placed Warren on its inactive list before kickoff, leaving Kenneth Gainwell, rookie Kaleb Johnson and elevated back Trey Sermon to handle the Pittsburgh rushing and receiving workload.

Warren was limited in practice midweek, initially listed as resting and then later designated with a knee injury on the team’s reports. He was seen wearing a knee brace in the locker room earlier in the week but downplayed the appearance. The team’s final inactive list, released early because the game was being played overseas, confirmed he would not play, a decision that the club characterized as a precaution as it heads into a bye week.

The absence removes the Steelers’ clear lead back from the lineup. Through three games this season Warren has been the primary ballcarrier and a key receiving option, with 43 carries for 132 rushing yards and 11 receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown. He also logged a season-high workload in Week 3, including a career-high 18 carries in the game against...