PITTSBURGH, Pa. (BLACK AND GOLD NATION) — The Pittsburgh Steelers made a surprising choice in the third round of the NFL Draft, opting not to select Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who was still available, and instead picking Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson.
Selected with the 83rd overall pick, Johnson’s name was called by Hall of Fame receiver Lynn Swann. He was one of nine running backs the Steelers brought in for a pre-draft visit.
Standing at 6’1″ and 221 pounds, Johnson is seen as a potential successor to Najee Harris, bringing size and explosiveness to the Steelers’ backfield. Meanwhile, Jaylen Warren recently signed his restricted free agent tender, ensuring his return for the upcoming season.
Johnson had a standout year in 2024, becoming a Doak Walker Award finalist — an honor for the nation’s top running back. He rushed for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns that season, bringing his career totals to 2,779 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns.
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