Running Back Kaleb Johnson Sees Perfect Fit in Steelers Offense
New Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson sees himself as a perfect fit in Arthur Smith's offense.
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers had an obvious need at running back after losing Najee Harris to the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency this offseason. So they selected Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson with the No. 83 overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and he thinks it was the perfect choice.
Johnson now joins Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s offense, which runs a wide-zone run scheme and is very familiar to what he ran in Iowa.
“I feel like, in general, it fits what I was doing at Iowa,” Johnson said. “So I’m just going to continue what I’m doing and get better, fix what I need to fix up, and just be the best I can be for the Steelers.”
If Johnson can translate that type of play to the NFL, Pittsburgh will be getting a steal in the third round.
The 21-year-old had a breakout season in 2024, rushing for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns while averaging 6.4 yards per carry. He also recorded 22 catches for 188 yards and two more scores.
Johnson also said that he has modeled his game after former Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell, who was one of the most instinctive players in the NFL. Smith shared that sentiment as well.
“We’re extremely excited about getting Kaleb Johnson in here. Really explosive running back,” Smith said. “One of the more instinctive backs that I’ve watched in a couple years coming out of the draft. Perfect fit, regardless of whatever run scheme your running.”
That isn’t to say Johnson will replicate Bell’s impressive nine-year NFL career, during which he rushed for 6,554 yards and 42 touchdowns.
However, he’s had a good feeling from the start of the pre-draft process that he could end up in Pittsburgh and do some special things.
“It was great from the jump,” Johnson said. “As soon as I came in, they welcomed me great. Me and coach (Eddie) Faulkner, we talked heart to heart. So we know what we need to do now to come out on top. I’m gonna give them my all.”