Why are there concerns about Kaleb Johnson?
Johnson's performance in training camp and the first preseason game has led to concerns that he may not be the explosive upgrade the Steelers were hoping for.
Yanuki
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Steelers Rookie RB Kaleb Johnson Faces Najee Harris Comparisons After Slow Start | Bobby Witt Jr.: From Rising Star to MVP Contender | Senators vs Canucks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game | NBA Injury Report and Game Predictions: Warriors vs. Jazz & Nets vs. Grizzlies | Kyle Tucker Returns to Dodgers Camp After Welcoming New Son | Alcaraz and Djokovic Shine at Indian Wells 2026 | Nolan Arenado: Near Miss with Red Sox and Chaotic Debut | World Baseball Classic 2026: Day 6 Highlights | Byron Buxton's World Baseball Classic Journey: Injury Scare and Team USA's Rising Appeal | Steelers Rookie RB Kaleb Johnson Faces Najee Harris Comparisons After Slow Start | Bobby Witt Jr.: From Rising Star to MVP Contender | Senators vs Canucks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game | NBA Injury Report and Game Predictions: Warriors vs. Jazz & Nets vs. Grizzlies | Kyle Tucker Returns to Dodgers Camp After Welcoming New Son | Alcaraz and Djokovic Shine at Indian Wells 2026 | Nolan Arenado: Near Miss with Red Sox and Chaotic Debut | World Baseball Classic 2026: Day 6 Highlights | Byron Buxton's World Baseball Classic Journey: Injury Scare and Team USA's Rising Appeal
Sports / NFL
Steelers Rookie RB Kaleb Johnson Faces Najee Harris Comparisons After Slow Start
Pittsburgh Steelers' third-round pick, Kaleb Johnson, is facing scrutiny after a slow start in training camp and the first preseason game. Comparisons to former Steelers RB Najee Harris are surfacing, raising questions about whether Johnson...
Key Insights
- Kaleb Johnson was drafted to be an upgrade over Najee Harris, but early performances have not met expectations.
- ESPN's Brooke Pryor noted similarities between Johnson's current performance and Harris's tenure, expressing concerns about Johnson's explosiveness.
- Johnson played the majority of his reps with the backup offensive line in the first preseason game, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.
- The Steelers' backfield is expected to be a committee approach, with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell also playing significant roles.
- Despite early concerns, it is still too early to make major judgments about Johnson's potential impact on the Steelers' offense.
In-Depth Analysis
The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Kaleb Johnson with the intention of finding a more explosive running back than Najee Harris, who, despite consistent 1,000-yard seasons, lacked game-changing plays. After the first preseason game and training camp observations, concerns are growing about whether Johnson can deliver on that promise. ESPN's Brooke Pryor compared Johnson's performance to Harris's, noting a lack of the desired explosiveness.
Johnson's performance in the preseason opener was statistically underwhelming, but it’s important to consider that he played primarily with the backup offensive line. This makes it challenging to draw firm conclusions about his abilities. The Steelers are likely to employ a committee approach in the backfield, involving Jaylen Warren and potentially Kenneth Gainwell, who is expected to have a role in the passing game.
It's still early in Johnson's career, and he has time to develop and improve. However, the initial comparisons to Najee Harris, a player the Steelers sought to upgrade from, are troubling for fans and analysts alike. The next few preseason games will be crucial in evaluating Johnson's progress and determining his role in the Steelers' offense.
FAQ
Who will be the starting running back for the Steelers?
The Steelers are expected to use a committee approach in the backfield, with Kaleb Johnson, Jaylen Warren, and potentially Kenneth Gainwell all sharing carries.
Is it too early to judge Kaleb Johnson?
Yes, it is still early in Johnson's career, and he has time to develop and improve. However, early impressions have raised some concerns.
Takeaways
- Kaleb Johnson's slow start has led to comparisons with Najee Harris, raising concerns about his explosiveness.
- The Steelers are likely to use a running back committee this season.
- It is still early in Johnson's career, and he has time to improve, but his progress in the remaining preseason games will be critical.
Discussion
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