Steelers Head Coach Believes in Young Running Back Kaleb Johnson

McCarthy says Johnson will get a chance to prove himself as a three-down back and special teams contributor.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements of a football player in motion, with sharp planes of color and form.A cubist interpretation of a Steelers running back's explosive movements on the field.Today in Pittsburgh

New Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy expressed his belief in second-year running back Kaleb Johnson, who had a limited role as a rookie in 2025. McCarthy said he understands Johnson's past mistakes, including a special teams gaffe, but sees potential in the young player and wants to challenge him to become a three-down back and contributor on special teams.

Why it matters

The Steelers' running back depth chart is crowded, with the team signing veteran Rico Dowdle in free agency to pair with Jaylen Warren. Johnson will need to earn his spot on the roster and prove he can be a reliable contributor on offense and special teams.

The details

Johnson, a third-round pick in 2025, had just 28 carries for 69 yards as a rookie. His most notable play was a special teams mistake that led to a touchdown for the Seattle Seahawks. Despite this, McCarthy expressed confidence in Johnson's abilities and wants to give him an opportunity to grow into a three-down back and special teams contributor.

  • In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Steelers selected wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round.
  • In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Steelers selected running back Kaleb Johnson in the third round.
  • At the start of free agency in 2026, the Steelers signed two-time 1,000-yard rusher Rico Dowdle.

The players

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who is expressing belief in young running back Kaleb Johnson.

Kaleb Johnson

A second-year running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who had a limited role as a rookie in 2025 but is being given a chance to prove himself by the new head coach.

Rico Dowdle

A two-time 1,000-yard rusher who the Steelers signed in free agency to bolster their running back depth.

Jaylen Warren

The Steelers' leading rusher in 2025, who will be part of a crowded backfield along with Dowdle and Johnson.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I understood what happened with him on special teams, but he's a young man. Look at his draft value. I'm going to challenge to be a three down player and a special teamer. All of that is part of being a young running back.”

— Mike McCarthy, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers

“I am aware of [his] past experiences, but this is like a Catholic operation. You say three Hail Marys and everybody has a clean slate and let's get to work.”

— Mike McCarthy, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers

What’s next

The Steelers will monitor Johnson's progress throughout the offseason and training camp as he competes for a role in the backfield rotation.

The takeaway

Despite a limited rookie season, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy is giving young running back Kaleb Johnson a chance to prove himself and earn a role in the team's crowded backfield. This shows McCarthy's willingness to develop young talent and give players opportunities to grow, which could pay dividends for the Steelers in the long run.