Problematic Update On Steelers Rookie Kaleb Johnson Emerges As Week 1 Contest Nears

The Pittsburgh Steelers made the rather surprising decision to extend the contract of Jaylen Warren just prior to the beginning of the 2025 regular season. The fourth-year ball carrier is atop the depth chart for the first time in his career, but the team elected to draft Kaleb Johnson in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft back in April. The offense could be set to have a legitimate two-back system, but time will tell which individuals have which respective roles. Kenneth Gainwell will also be involved to some extent as an experienced running back that has Super Bowl pedigree.

One thing about Warren that has always separated himself from the pack is his ability to protect the quarterback. While his main focus is running the football, he also serves as one of the best pass-blocking running backs in the NFL. This is what allows him to project as a true three-down workhorse. Early on, Johnson could have difficultly finding himself on the field in key moments because of this.

On top of Warren's ability to excel as a pass blocker, Johnson is appearing to struggle early on with the assignment. That will immediately lead to him earning fewer snaps, particularly if the Steelers' offense puts an emphasis on passing the pigskin. In a fan chat on Wednesday morning, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Ray Fittipaldo had some negative comments when it came to trusting Johnson to perform in an underrated role.

"I know [Johnson] struggled in practices," Fittipaldo wrote. "Struggled to the point where I'd have a hard time having him out there in situations when I knew he had to protect."

Warren is extremely efficient when he has the job of protecting his quarterback. This elite talent is one of the many reasons why he was able to make the team as an undrafted free agent back in 2022. His ability to serve in many different capacities is also what led to him receiving a nice contract extension. If Johnson can't improve, then Warren will almost certainly be the go-to running back in obvious passing situations.

Johnson was listed as the third option on the Steelers' Week 1 depth chart, but that is pretty standard in Pittsburgh. Head Coach Mike Tomlin almost always forces rookie playmakers to earn their trips up the ladder. It won't be long before Johnson is getting more carries than Gainwell, but it may be a little bit more delayed when it comes to him hurdling Warren. That could happen quicker if Johnson figures out a way to impress in relation to pass-blocking.

Pittsburgh will emphasize the rushing attack in 2025, which is why fans are likely to see a good amount of Johnson moving forward. Tomlin will ask a lot out of his backfield however, and if the struggles to protect the quarterback continues for Johnson, he is not going to earn a top role right away. Fittipaldo noticing that the young ball carrier is struggling highlights a crucial point early on in his career.

If the Steelers can figure out an efficient way to improve Johnson's all-around game, the team will be set up for the next four years or so when it comes to the running back position. Warren has the opportunity to mentor and help Johnson as well.

Steelers Didn't Draft Johnson Early To Have Him Just Sit On The Sidelines

Pittsburgh decided to invest in the running back position during the 2025 offseason. This was not just with Warren's extension, but the third-round selection of Johnson as well. The two could serve as a dynamic duo, but being polished in every facet of the game is important. Johnson will need to continue to perfect his craft to earn a solidified top role on offense.

Do you think the Steelers are concerned with Johnson's pass protection? Let us know in the comments below!

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