Arthur Smith Raves about Kaleb Johnson’s Secret Strength
PITTSBURGH–If there is one thing the Pittsburgh Steelers want to do, it is grind out teams in the run game on offense. With their only day two selection, they picked Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson number 83 overall. On Friday, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith zeroed in on a strength in Johnson’s game: the fourth quarter.
“One of the more impressive stats you’ve seen in the fourth quarter — what he averaged in the fourth quarter. I believe it was over 5 yards per carry,” Smith said in his opening statement after the selection. “Might have been closer to 6. We think he’s a great culture fit. Obviously extremely fired up to get Kaleb in here.”
Not only did Smith highlight Johnson’s strong running ability, but also an area the Steelers have focussed on this offseason: explosive ability.
“We need to get more explosive, and this is an explosive runner, and that’s where he will certainly help.” Smith said of Johnson’s big play abilities.
Over the 2024 season, Johnson racked up over 1,500 yards rushing with 23 all-purpose touchdowns. What may be most impressive is the fact he got most of his production in his conference–something the Steelers would like to see translate in the division.
For the Steelers, they now will transition to getting the team gelled in OTA’s, mini-camps, and soon training camp in Latrobe.
Alan Saunders and Aaron Becker provided reporting from Pittsburgh.