Most have become normalized to praising General Manager Omar Khan and his staff in the front office. Their draft classes have gained plenty of praise since he took over as GM, but he might not deserve every compliment that goes his way. In retrospect, some of his selections in past drafts have not been great; in fact, it has caused some issues across the Pittsburgh Steelers' roster.
One of the biggest concerns throughout the early part of this season has been rookie running back Kaleb Johnson.
He hasn't shown much at the position, and he has been demoted as a kick returner after poor play. The Steelers aren't putting the tail back into a good spot to succeed, but he isn't doing himself any favors either. He had a ton of hype after the NFL Draft, but things have been nothing but shaky for the third-round pick.
Maybe Khan and Mike Tomlin should've gone with a different running back during the draft this past spring. Cam Skattebo was available when Johnson was picked by Pittsburgh, and he is off to a terrific start with the New York Giants. Skattebo would've fit the mold of what Tomlin loves at the running back position, and the rookie running back's start this season would help solve the issues Johnson suffered.
Pittsburgh Steelers could've drafted Cam Skattebo instead of RB Kaleb Johnson
On the surface, it made sense for the Steelers to take Johnson over Skattebo during the NFL Draft.
Johnson showed signs of star potential, but he needed development. Pittsburgh wanted to refrain from the "three yards and a cloud of dust" mentality that had been associated with Najee Harris. It appeared Skattebo was going to be that type of player, but things have changed since then.
Johnson continues to struggle with developing a well-rounded game, which has limited his opportunities as a running back. Jaylen Warren is off to a terrific start to the season, which has also limited the rookie's chances. Combine Johnson's early struggles with the significant playing time of Warren and Kenneth Gainwell, and it hints at trouble for the young player.
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Skattebo was selected 22 picks after Johnson, going 105th overall in the NFL Draft compared to Johnson’s 83rd. What is surprising is that the Steelers refused to host Skattebo during the pre-draft visit process. He reminded many talent evaluators of James Conner, but Pittsburgh appeared eager to steer away from that type of player.
That decision might've cost them a star running back.
Johnson has only gotten eight rushing attempts and one pass thrown in his direction since the season began. He was benched as the kick returner, while Skattebo has started to become a folk hero with the New York Giants. The rookie back has 82 carries for 338 rushing yards, 20 receptions for 155 yards, and five touchdowns. The Steelers could've taken him, and now they may regret it.