After a busy start to free agency, many expected the Pittsburgh Steelers to stop adding new players. While the pace has eased, signings have continued to trickle in. The Steelers recently signed Brock Hoffman, adding a capable veteran presence in the trenches, and another move has now been reported. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Pittsburgh has also signed running back Travis Homer.
While the deal may seem surprising given his position, it really shouldn’t be.
The running back has not played a significant role at his natural position since 2020, but he remains a strong contributor on special teams, an area the Steelers have struggled to replace this offseason. Although the team has added several free agents, few of those signings project to make a meaningful impact on special teams.
After losing several free agents who played key roles on special teams this offseason, Pittsburgh needs proven contributors in that phase of the game. Homer fits that need, as he can compete for a roster spot.
However, adding another running back further complicates the outlook for Kaleb Johnson. With Homer now in the mix, Johnson’s future with the team becomes even more uncertain.
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Kaleb Johnson could risk losing his roster spot to Travis Homer
After adding Homer in free agency, it appears the Steelers may be finished addressing the position for now. If that proves to be the case, Johnson’s future is not entirely bleak. The team could still opt to carry four running backs on the final roster, with Homer serving primarily as a special teams contributor. However, Johnson’s situation could become more complicated after the NFL Draft.
The Steelers have shown limited interest in the position heading into the draft, but they hold 12 picks overall.
If they end up using all of them, it would not be surprising to see the team add a rookie to the mix. That type of move could ultimately force Johnson out of the picture. Homer’s arrival already complicates matters, as it could impact Johnson in multiple ways. The former third-round pick already lost his role as a returner and could also slip further down the depth chart.
With a new coaching staff now in place, it remains unclear how they view last year’s third-round pick. At the time, selecting Johnson at that point in the draft appeared to be a steal, but that perception has not aged well. As a rookie, he struggled with mental lapses and saw limited playing time.
Now that the staff has been reshaped under Mike McCarthy, the team may be more inclined to move on.
Signing Homer isn't a worst-case scenario for the former high draft pick, but it doesn't help Johnson's case.
Moving on from a third-round selection after just one season is uncommon. That said, Johnson should be mindful of the situation. His roster security remains relatively strong for now, but the addition of Homer, along with a potential draft pick in April, could significantly alter his outlook. This free agent move may represent the beginning of the end for Johnson’s tenure with the Steelers.