The Pittsburgh Steelers had a long wait on Friday evening before finally selecting Iowa Running Back Kaleb Johnson in the third round. The selection was not surprising considering the team had eight different running backs in for pre-draft visits.
The only complaint I have with this selection is that Johnson isn’t one of those “home run hitters” this offense desperately needs. He’s no plodder mind you running a 4.5 forty, but I was hoping for lightning in a bottle. That aside, this is an excellent pick.
Johnson is a perfect pick for Arthur Smith’s offense. The zone blocking system prefers guys who can see things from the front and back sides, put a foot in the ground and go. Johnson is this to a tee. He also has a nose for the end zone scoring at least one touchdown in every game last season for the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Johnson (6′ 225lbs) Stats 2024
Carries: 240
Rushing Yards: 1,537
Touchdowns: 21
Yards per Carry: 6.4
Receptions: 22
Receiving Yards: 188
Receiving Touchdowns: 2
The potential for Johnson to be a three-down back is there. Although not used a ton as a receiver, he’s more than capable. Pass protection will need work – as is the case with most backs coming into the NFL – but the willingness is there. His presence also gives the Steelers a dynamic backfield.
There’s no need to rush Johnson into action with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell in the stable. Each guy will offer a different dynamic and the challenge now falls onto Smith to get the most out of this group.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the fact that the Steelers didn’t take a quarterback. I believe that is coming today. Look for Kyle McCord or Will Howard to be prime targets of Omar Khan and the Steelers as early as the fourth round today.
