The Steelers have every reason to stay patient with Kaleb Johnson

Redemption makes for a great story, and the Pittsburgh Steelers expect a happy ending to the one they will embark on in 2026. An off-season centered around innovation has fans feeling optimistic about Mike McCarthy’s debut season. The seasoned head coach will lead his motivated unit on a revenge tour. 

And that should be music to Kaleb Johnson’s ears. 

Second chances are not a given in the NFL. If you don’t believe me, just ask Pittsburgh’s second-year tailback. The former Iowa Hawkeye received an ovation when Pittsburgh selected him using a third-round pick (83) during the 2025 NFL Draft. At the time, fans had every reason to celebrate. 

During his collegiate career, Johnson managed 2,779 rushing yards, 508 attempts, and 32 total touchdowns in three seasons. In 2024, the former Iowa Hawkeye ranked first in rushing yards and touchdowns in the Big Ten. His downhill running style felt like a perfect investment for an offense that just lost a bruiser like Najee Harris.

It seemed like the perfect marriage for a franchise seeking a new bell cow for its ground attack. But unfortunately, the wave of draft anticipation crashed before Johnson could get his feet wet. 

I was surprised at how infrequently Pittsburgh used their hopeful workhorse last season.

The Pittsburgh Steelers must give Kaleb Johnson a chance at redemption during the 2026 season

Sure, Johnson was a rookie who needed development, but his reps were few and far between. Especially after a crushing Week 2 muffed kickoff return against the Seattle Seahawks. The mistake put a target on Johnson’s back throughout the season, making it hard for the rookie to earn his keep. He finished the campaign with 28 carries and 69 rushing yards and zero touchdowns.

I was completely surprised by his lack of usage, but I believe things will change in the new campaign. 

A consistent ground attack will be paramount for McCarthy’s offense this season. With Aaron Rodgers’ age, it’s critical to adopt a balanced offensive philosophy. In 2025, the Steelers opted to pass 57.5% of their offensive snaps. It made the unit one-dimensional and yielded dismal results. 

Pittsburgh’s front office invested in Rico Dowdle to pair with Jaylen Warren. And yes, they may share the brunt of the carries this campaign. But I find it hard to believe Kaleb Johnson will not receive an uptick in production as well. The addition of fullback Riley Nowakowski should help the second-year player find free-running lanes casually. Plus, Johnson is determined, motivated, and still unproven. 

The ball will be in Pittsburgh’s red zone. Whether they decide to feed their second-year running back ample carries could be the deciding factor between a smooth and stressful season. One thing is for sure: Johnson is capable and ready for the promotion. Even if it’s a minor one to prove his worth. 

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