2025 NFL Draft Results: Steelers select with 3rd round RB Kaleb Johnson pick

Entering the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers had a number of draft needs that they needed to address. The Steelers don’t possess a full allotment of draft picks after trading for DK Metcalf, and there were several positions which would be considered a glaring need on their roster.

With six total picks, the following positions could be viewed as a priority entering the selection process: quarterback, wide receiver, cornerback, and even safety. Those positions, and more, were positions of need to help the black-and-gold get to the next level in 2025. There have been numerous thoughts and debates regarding what the team will do in Round 3 of the NFL Draft.

When the dust settled, the Steelers selected running back Kaleb Johnson out of Iowa with their 3rd Round pick in the draft.

At pick No. 83 in the third round, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 26, 2025

As for a breakdown of Johnson as a prospect, here is a breakdown from our very own Andrew Wilbar:

Height: 6’0″
Weight: 225 lbs
Draft Projection: Day 2
Notable Accomplishment: Finished 7th in FBS in rushing yards (2024)

Pros: Johnson overcame a good number of obstacles to become the player he is today, and he continues to improve. As a runner, Johnson displays incredible burst through the hole, and he does a great job of getting the pads low enough to create positive gains in short yardage situations. Although primarily a north-and-south type runner, Johnson has enough agility in his lower extremities to avoid contact in the backfield and bounce it to the outside. His plus pass blocking skills could give him an immediate opportunity to be a three-down back in the league, as he identifies the blitzer before the snap and possesses outstanding technique. One of the things I like most about his game is his decisiveness. Whether it be as runner or receiver, Johnson is quick to get upfield once the ball is in his hands. He knows where he wants to move, and he gets moving quickly.

Cons: Displaying a little more patience for a hole to open up will be key to Johnson’s success in the NFL. There are instances on tape when the interior was plugged and Johnson immediately tried to cut it to the outside. He got away with it and had some nice breakaway runs on the perimeter, but I am not sure he will be able to outrun defenders in the NFL like he could in college. Johnson was also the beneficiary of a run-friendly offense combined with a physical offensive line, which allowed him to put up good numbers despite having only average vision and elusiveness.

Overview: I view Johnson as a consistent early-down back in a committee backfield. Ideally, I would like to see him go to a team with a good speed option in the backfield already. I think of a team like Carolina that already has Chuba Hubbard and Raheem Blackshear, or even a Tennessee with Tony Pollard and Tajae Spears. If his vision can improve and he can display a little more patience, there is certainly starting running back upside here.

NFL Comparison: Isaiah Crowell

What are your thoughts on the selection? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to stay glued to SCN for the latest Steelers news and notes throughout the 2025 NFL Draft. Be sure to check out the BREAKING NEWS podcast in the player below, when it is available: