Steelers Rookie Kaleb Johnson Claims Hidden Skill That Could Revolutionize Their Offense

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the Steelers’ newest weapon, Kaleb Johnson, you know this rookie isn’t just quietly stepping into the NFL – he’s coming in with a swagger, flashing a skill set that demands attention. After ripping through his final Iowa season with over 1,500 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns, plus a handful of reliable catches, Johnson’s making bold claims about his game – likening himself to the likes of Derrick Henry and Dalvin Cook. That kind of confidence isn’t something you see every day from a third-round pick. But here’s the thing: Johnson isn’t just talking big, he’s backing it up with versatility – a rare combo of speed, power, and hands that could very well reshape Pittsburgh’s ground attack after Najee Harris moved on. The Steelers would be more than happy if Johnson ends up anywhere close to those comparisons – heck, an upgrade alone would be enough to stir some excitement in the Steel City. LEARN MORE

“I feel like I’m a versatile back,” Johnson said. “I can be a Derrick Henry back or I can be a Dalvin Cook back. I feel like that’s what separates me from a lot of backs in the league and in this class that I came into, because, overall, I feel like I’m a fast back and I can be a strong back. Also, catch the ball out of the backfield and be reliable.”Johnson ran for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns while catching 22 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns during his final season at Iowa and the third-round pick said in an interview with the team’s website that he thinks his ability to make plays in both areas will make a difference for him in the NFL.The Steelers would be thrilled if Johnson’s play reminds others of Henry or Cook and they’ll settle for an upgrade over what Najee Harris brought to the offense before he signed with the Chargers as a free agent. Steelers rookie running back Kaleb Johnson isn’t shying away from comparisons to some established NFL stars.