Kaleb Johnson: A Versatile Running Back Poised to Make an Impact for the Pittsburgh Steelers
The arrival of rookie running back Kaleb Johnson to the Pittsburgh Steelers roster in the 2025 NFL season has stirred excitement and high expectations across fanbases and analysts alike. Drafted in the third round with the 83rd overall pick, Johnson has sparked conversations by boldly comparing himself to elite NFL running backs Derrick Henry and Dalvin Cook—both multiple-time Pro Bowlers known for their dynamic and versatile playing styles. This analysis explores Johnson’s skillset, his unique versatility, and what his presence could mean for the Steelers’ offense.
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Embracing Versatility: Johnson’s Self-Comparison to Derrick Henry and Dalvin Cook
Kaleb Johnson’s repeated emphasis on versatility is a defining theme in his public comments. He positions himself as a hybrid back capable of combining the power and bruising style characteristic of Derrick Henry with the agility, speed, and receiving skills associated with Dalvin Cook. Johnson said in interviews, “I can be a Derrick Henry back or I can be a Dalvin Cook back,” highlighting his eagerness to bring a multi-dimensional impact to the Steelers offense.
This comparison sets a lofty benchmark. Derrick Henry is renowned for his punishing downhill running, breaking tackles and wearing down defenses, while Dalvin Cook offers explosive speed, elusiveness, and reliability as a receiver out of the backfield. Johnson’s ambition to integrate attributes from both backs signals a balanced and adaptable approach: he can power through defensive lines, excel in situational power runs, and also stretch defenses by contributing effectively to the passing game.
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Collegiate Performance as a Foundation for NFL Success
Johnson’s collegiate record at Iowa provides tangible evidence of his capabilities. In his final season, his stats were impressive: 1,537 rushing yards, 21 touchdowns, 22 receptions for 188 yards, and 2 receiving touchdowns. These numbers reflect his explosiveness, scoring ability, and hands as a receiver — elements that bode well for his role in an NFL offense.
Observers note his patient running style combined with exceptional vision, allowing him to maximize yardage after contact. A timed 40-yard dash speed of approximately 4.57 seconds is complemented by in-game explosiveness and instinctually quick cuts that seem to outpace raw speed metrics. Such combination of patience, power, and physicality helps Johnson fit seamlessly into the Steelers’ offensive schemes.
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Fit with the Steelers and Offensive Philosophy
The arrival of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, known for riding the “hot hand,” could be highly advantageous for Johnson’s development and utilization. Reports indicate a strong early chemistry between Johnson and Smith, suggesting Johnson could see significant carries and opportunities to prove his worth.
The Steelers have transitioned away from Najee Harris, a solid but not elite back during his tenure. Johnson is viewed as a potential upgrade or at least a fresh start, bringing the type of physicality and versatility the team craves. Pittsburgh’s offense, historically grounded in power running, can harness Johnson’s ability to handle tough yards while also expanding its dynamic appeal with a back who can catch passes reliably and generate explosive plays to keep defenses guessing.
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Expectations and Comparisons Within the NFL Landscape
Kaleb Johnson’s expectations for himself are as ambitious as his comparisons. He speaks confidently of vying for accolades such as Offensive Rookie of the Year, rushing over 1,000 yards, and earning All-Pro honors. While these are challenging goals for any rookie, the Steelers’ trust in him, coupled with his proven college pedigree and skillset, provides a strong foundation.
Analysts have drawn varied comparisons beyond Henry and Cook as well. Some liken him to Najee Harris in style—a big, bruising back with a mix of physicality and toughness. Others note his uniqueness in blending power and receiving ability, potentially setting him apart from more one-dimensional running backs in the league.
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Strengths That Differentiate Johnson From Peers
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Potential Challenges and Areas for Growth
While Johnson shows great promise, certain aspects warrant attention:
– Adapting to NFL Speed and Complexity: Accelerating decision-making and maintaining ball security against faster, more complex defenses.
– Durability and Workload Management: As a hybrid back, balancing heavy carry loads and receiving duties without injury risk.
– Consistency: Translating all-around skills consistently across an entire NFL season is a step up from collegiate competition.
His performance in Steelers’ minicamps and offseason activities has reportedly been impressive, which indicates a readiness to meet these challenges head-on.
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Conclusion: A New Era Back For the Steelers?
Kaleb Johnson’s introduction into the NFL and the Pittsburgh Steelers lineup represents an opportunity to revitalize the team’s offensive identity with a running back of rare versatility. His self-comparison to Derrick Henry and Dalvin Cook is ambitious but well-grounded in his actual skill set—a blend of power, agility, and receiving acumen that can diversify Pittsburgh’s attack.
If Johnson can fulfill his envisioned role as both a bruising runner and a reliable receiving threat, he could become a cornerstone of the Steelers’ offense, driving them toward greater competitiveness. His journey will be closely followed not only by Steelers fans but also by NFL observers intrigued by this intriguing fusion of tenacity and finesse in a rookie ready to prove his worth on the grand stage.
