Title: Steelers’ Jaylen Warren Stands Firm Despite Fines: “I Try to Enforce the Hitting”
Introduction
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren has recently expressed his frustration with the fines he has received for unnecessary roughness. Despite incurring a second significant fine this season, Warren remains resolute in his approach to blocking. In this article, we will delve into Warren’s perspective on the fines, his determination to maintain his playing style, and the impact these penalties have on his finances.
The Unwavering Mindset
Warren acknowledges that the fines he has received are substantial sums of money. However, he refuses to let them alter his playstyle. He believes that his aggressive blocking technique is what earned him a spot on the team and he is not willing to compromise that. Warren’s commitment to his role on the team is unwavering, even in the face of financial consequences.
The Cost of Enforcing the Hitting
The Steelers’ running back has been fined $48,556 for a block on Los Angeles Rams outside linebacker Michael Hoecht during pass protection. Warren’s fines from last year were also taken into account when calculating this year’s penalties. Standing at 5-8 and weighing 215 pounds, Warren often finds himself facing much larger opponents, making it challenging to hold his ground without resorting to forceful hits. He believes that his attempts to enforce the hitting are what lead to these fines.
Disparity in Fines
Warren expresses frustration over what he perceives as a lack of consistency in the NFL’s fine system. He claims to have witnessed instances where players engaged in more intentional and egregious actions without facing comparable fines. This inconsistency adds to Warren’s dissatisfaction with the current penalty structure.
Financial Impact
Warren’s three-year contract with the Steelers is worth $2.57 million, with a salary of $870,000 for this season. The fines he has received have cost him nearly two game checks, which he describes as “hella money.” He emphasizes that the amount he has been fined could have been used to support his family or purchase a car. Warren suggests implementing a fine structure based on a percentage of players’ salaries to ensure fairness and prevent individuals from losing a significant portion of their earnings.
Support from Coaches
Warren reveals that he has discussed his concerns with the coaching staff, and they share his viewpoint. They acknowledge the disparity in fines between players like Warren and star linebacker T.J. Watt. This support from the coaching staff validates Warren’s belief that the current fine system is flawed and requires revision.
Previous Fine Reduction
Earlier this season, Warren was fined the same amount for unnecessary roughness when he used his helmet to fend off Cleveland Browns safety Juan Thornhill, gaining extra yards at the end of a run. Warren appealed the fine, resulting in a reduction of $9,000. However, he still considers it a loss rather than a victory due to the substantial amount that remained.
Conclusion
Jaylen Warren’s determination to enforce hard hits and maintain his playing style has come at a significant financial cost. Despite incurring substantial fines for unnecessary roughness, Warren remains steadfast in his approach. He advocates for a fairer fine structure based on players’ salaries to prevent individuals from losing a significant portion of their earnings. As the NFL continues to address player safety concerns, finding a balance between enforcing rules and allowing players to play their natural game remains an ongoing challenge.