Steelers Rookie RB Kaleb Johnson Already Turning Heads With Early Growth

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an incredibly active and eventful offseason, with a series of bold roster changes that has sparked conversations and debates. From big trades to unexpected signings and strategic draft picks, the front office made it clear that they are determined to reshape the team for immediate and long-term success. With so many changes taking place, expectations are high as the team transitions into offseason programs. Now that these camps are in full swing, attention shifts to how the new additions will fit in and perform.

With so much attention focused on the Steelers' new additions, one player who has started to stand out is rookie running back Kaleb Johnson. Johnson has been drawing a fair amount of talk, as he works to sharpen key aspects of his game, most notably his pass blocking, which he’s openly acknowledged as an area he's aiming to improve. Recently, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly highlighted Johnson during an episode of his podcast, Kaboly + Mack, which included a wide range of topics surrounding the team’s minicamp. In the episode, Kaboly made specific mention of Johnson’s performance, adding to the growing interest in the rookie's development and potential role in the backfield.

"Kaleb Johnson has been working on it, but you can tell he has all of the tools and he’s gonna pick that up really, really quickly," Kaboly said.

Johnson was selected by the Steelers in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft, a move that created a lot of excitement among fans and analysts. The pick made perfect sense for Pittsburgh, as the team was in need of additional depth and talent at the running back position. What makes Johnson especially interesting is his reputation for delivering explosive plays, something the Steelers have been eager to incorporate more consistently into their offense. His dynamic style fits well with the vision of Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, who has emphasized the importance of adding more explosiveness to the team’s offensive scheme.

Smith also said that at this point in the offseason, he’s not ready to name a definitive starting running back. That uncertainty comes from the big move the Steelers made by allowing Najee Harris, the team’s leading rusher over the past few seasons, to hit free agency. The Steelers chose not to exercise Harris’ fifth-year option, a move that ultimately led him to sign with another team, leaving a noticeable void in the backfield. 

With Harris gone, the competition for the top spot is wide open. Smith has spoken positively about the current group of running backs, expressing confidence in the talent and versatility each brings to the table. This suggests that the coaching staff is keeping an open mind, giving every player a real shot to earn the starting role as offseason activities and training camp continue.

Another strong candidate for the starting role is Jaylen Warren, who returns to the Steelers for another season and brings valuable experience to the backfield. Given his familiarity with the offense and consistent performance in previous years, Warren is expected to handle the bulk of the carries early on. Interestingly, Johnson has credited Warren with playing a key role in his development, particularly when it comes to improving his pass blocking. 

Johnson has openly acknowledged that much of what he’s learning in that area has come directly from observing and working alongside Warren. Having a veteran like Warren, who not only understands the playbook but also the team’s overall approach, is a major advantage for a young player like Johnson. His guidance and mentorship could prove instrumental in helping Johnson adjust quickly and carve out a role for himself in the Steelers' offense.

Steelers Are In A Good Place

It’s not necessarily a negative that the Steelers don’t have a clear-cut starting running back at this stage, especially with a rookie like Johnson in the mix. In fact, the open competition could prove beneficial, giving Johnson the time and opportunity to gradually adjust to the NFL and fully grasp the Steelers' offensive scheme. As offseason programs continue, Johnson will keep learning and growing within the system, and there's nothing better than live reps when it comes to gaining meaningful experience. Watching his development unfold will be one of the most interesting storylines heading into the season.

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