Steelers Make a Bold Move: Johnson Joins the Team!

The Steelers have officially signed running back Kaleb Johnson, their third-round pick, to a four-year deal. Johnson, selected 83rd overall, made a name for himself at the University of Iowa.

Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is thrilled to have Johnson on board. He believes Johnson’s skills align perfectly with the team’s needs. “He’s an explosive running back that we got to know during our pre-draft visit,” Smith said. “He’s one of the most instinctive backs I’ve seen come out of college in a few years.”

Smith highlighted Johnson’s versatility, noting that he excelled in various running schemes during his time at Iowa. “He was impressive as the game progressed. In the fourth quarter, he averaged over five yards per carry, which is remarkable,” Smith explained.

Johnson is not just a great talent; he’s also a cultural fit for the Steelers. Smith couldn’t hide his enthusiasm, saying, “We’re excited to bring Kaleb into the mix.”

During his college career, Johnson played 35 games, starting in 22. He rushed 508 times for 2,779 yards and scored 30 touchdowns. Additionally, he caught 29 passes for 240 yards and two touchdowns. Johnson’s achievements include becoming just the 17th player in Iowa’s history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards and the fifth to notate two games with over 200 rushing yards.

In his senior year, he really shined, appearing in 12 games with career highs of 240 carries for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns. This performance underscores his potential impact at the professional level.

Feeling optimistic, Johnson is ready to tackle whatever challenges come his way in the Steelers’ offense. “I’m excited to work with Coach Faulkner and my teammate Jaylen Warren. We’re going to be a great duo,” Johnson expressed. “I can’t wait to get started!”

As the NFL evolves, running backs like Johnson are becoming crucial. With a focus on versatile players who can adapt to different game situations, Johnson’s ability to perform under pressure is an asset that could benefit the Steelers greatly. The team’s strategy might increasingly rely on such adaptable skills, especially given recent stats indicating that running backs who excel in late-game situations often help clinch wins.

For further insights into the ever-changing landscape of the NFL and the importance of running back performance, check out this report from Sports Illustrated.

Source link

Transactions,Bordas & Bordas,Featured,Sights and Sounds,Draft Articles 2025