The Pittsburgh Steelers got a potential steal in the 2025 NFL Draft, landing Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson in the third round when the consensus thought was that he would go in round two. Bucky Brooks of NFL Media believes Johnson landed in the perfect spot by going to Pittsburgh, predicting the former Hawkeye to have over 1,000 yards as a rookie.

“The seamless transition from Iowa’s zone-based system to Pittsburgh’s downhill rushing attack could help Johnson hit the ground running in the pros” Brooks writes. As a big back (6-foot-1, 224 pounds) with straight-line speed and a smooth running style, he patiently surveys the defense from behind the line until he spots a crack at the point of attack. With the Steelers’ fielding a massive offensive line specializing in bulldozing defenders off the ball, Johnson could immediately post a 1,000-yard season as the team’s new RB1.”

Johnson led the Big Ten in rushing yards with 1,537 in 2024, as well as rushing touchdowns with 21. Considering the fact that he played in a very similar scheme run-wise at Iowa to that of the Steelers, Johnson’s transition should be very fluid.

Time will tell how the Steelers decide to divvy up the reps and carries between Johnson and Jaylen Warren. However, splitting carries with Johnson getting a slight nod in terms of total touches would make the most sense. He has more explosive ability than Najee Harris, and this also allows Warren to be the lightning to Johnson’s thunder, which is a role that best serves him.