The Pittsburgh Steelers just unveiled their first depth chart of training camp, and there were some eye-opening choices. The initial groupings should always be taken with a grain of salt, but they reveal how things are currently shaping up at camp. There is plenty of time for the roster to mold between the remainder of training camp and the conclusion of the preseason process.
It is required by the NFL for teams to release official depth charts; otherwise, Mike Tomlin would refuse to release one. He always cautions fans not to read too much into what they put out to the public. Things can change in a hurry at training camp, with varying degrees of change with injuries or other players struggling in practice. There are changes on the way.
Kaleb Johnson's positioning on the depth chart is shocking.
He has shown a strong burst at training camp and appears to be on the upswing. Pittsburgh is hopeful that the rookie running back will battle his way into contention for the starting spot with Jaylen Warren. The initial depth chart has sunk those dreams as Johnson must work his way in front of veteran players before the preseason ends.
Pittsburgh Steelers first depth chart of training camp is bad news for Kaleb Johnson
Right now, the Steelers have Warren and Kenneth Gainwell ahead of the rookie running back on the depth chart. It's no surprise that Warren is listed as the starter, but having Gainwell as the second-string back is shocking. They signed the veteran return man during free agency, but many don't expect him to produce a massive role at the running back position this upcoming campaign.
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It's not all bad news for Johnson, as Pittsburgh's third-round pick of the 2025 NFL Draft has gotten better with time. He has found ways to show patience and a strong burst of speed that the Steelers haven't seen at the position in years. He has been producing good practices at training camp, and it should result in him eventually shoving Gainwell further down the depth chart.
Warren remains in the driver's seat to hold onto the starting job when the regular season begins. Johnson must continue to improve as a pass protector at the position before Tomlin is comfortable with the rookie in a bigger role.
The flashy runner should continue to grow his role as the season progresses, but right now, he must earn his keep during the remainder of the preseason process.
The initial depth chart shows that it can't be taken too seriously with Johnson as the third-stringer. He possesses impressive talent and consistently shows it during practice. He must maintain his momentum and work on improving the weaker parts of his game. Successfully doing those things could put him in the starting mix sooner rather than later.