Nebraska RB Emmett Johnson training in South Florida ahead of NFL Combine

Versatile speedster could turn heads at annual scouting event

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson, who had a standout 2025 season leading the Big Ten in carries, rushing yards, and total touches, is training in South Florida ahead of the NFL Scouting Combine. The 5-foot-11, 200-pound Johnson is considered a top running back prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, with analysts like Bucky Brooks ranking him as the No. 2 back in the class. Johnson is confident his combine performance will "put everybody on notice" as he looks to prove he has the speed, versatility, and all-around skills to be a difference-maker at the next level.

Why it matters

Johnson's draft stock could rise significantly with a strong showing at the combine, as the running back position remains in flux in the NFL. Teams are always looking for dynamic, versatile backfield threats, and Johnson's ability to excel as both a runner and receiver could make him an attractive option, especially for offenses trending toward more pass-catching threats out of the backfield.

The details

Johnson had a breakout 2025 season at Nebraska, leading the Big Ten in carries (251), rushing yards (1,451), and total touches (297) while also catching 46 passes for 370 yards and scoring 15 total touchdowns. He is training at Bommarito Performance Systems in South Florida, where he has been fine-tuning his 40-yard dash time ahead of the combine. Johnson is confident his testing numbers will "put everybody on notice" as he looks to prove he has the speed and all-around skills to be a top-tier NFL running back prospect.

  • Johnson is training in South Florida ahead of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, which takes place next week in Indianapolis.
  • Johnson had a standout redshirt junior season at Nebraska in 2025.

The players

Emmett Johnson

A 5-foot-11, 200-pound running back from Nebraska who is considered a top prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Bucky Brooks

An NFL.com analyst who has Johnson ranked as the No. 2 running back in the 2026 draft class.

Pete Bommarito

The trainer at Bommarito Performance Systems in Miami, where Johnson is preparing for the NFL Combine.

De'Von Achane

The Miami Dolphins' lone Pro Bowl selection last season, who plays running back and could be a potential fit for Johnson's skillset.

Larry Fitzgerald

A recently named Hall of Fame wide receiver who attended the same high school as Johnson and has served as a mentor to the young running back.

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What they’re saying

“I'm assuming, at the combine, I'll put everybody on notice. So, it's going to be really fun.”

— Emmett Johnson, Nebraska running back

“I like watching Achane. I feel like we got a lot of similarities, between me and his game. I've watched a lot of their tape, so I'm going to continue to do that, but any team that gives me a chance, I'll be willing to go and change a franchise or go win a Super Bowl. So, whatever it takes, I'm willing to do that.”

— Emmett Johnson, Nebraska running back

What’s next

Johnson will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and athleticism at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis next week, where he hopes to solidify his status as one of the top running back prospects in the 2026 draft class.

The takeaway

Emmett Johnson's combination of production, versatility, and confidence make him an intriguing running back prospect who could see his draft stock rise significantly with a strong performance at the NFL Combine. His ability to excel as both a runner and receiver aligns with the evolving demands of the modern NFL backfield, and he'll look to prove he has the speed and all-around skills to be an impact player at the next level.