Kaleb Johnson’s Steelers Future Hangs in the Balance Amid Preseason Struggles
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ running back room is crowded, and second-year pro Kaleb Johnson is feeling the squeeze. According to The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo, Johnson is in real danger of being cut before the regular season begins. The former third-round pick has seen his opportunities dwindle in practice and in the preseason opener, where he played behind both Travis Homer and Lew Nichols and didn’t record his first carry until the third quarter. This lack of trust from the coaching staff is a stark contrast to his college production at Iowa, where he rushed for 1,537 yards and 22 touchdowns in his final season, often creating yards after contact.nnThe Steelers’ backfield is currently five-deep, and the addition of veteran backs has pushed Johnson down the depth chart. With Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle resting in the preseason opener, Johnson still couldn’t secure early reps, a telling sign. DeFabo notes that cutting a third-round pick just one year after drafting him would be a tough look for the organization, but the trend seems to be heading in that direction. Johnson himself has acknowledged that his standing with the team remains unclear, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his future.nnMeanwhile, the NFL is closely monitoring a separate matter involving another player, Josh Jacobs, who is on the commissioner’s exempt list. The league released a statement saying it is ‘closely monitoring all developments in the matter, which remains under review.’ Jacobs’ representatives have denied the allegations, stating that ‘Josh vehemently denies the allegations, and this matter is in the early stages of investigation with important evidence that has not yet been made public.’ This situation adds another layer of complexity to the running back landscape, though it does not directly impact Johnson’s roster status.nnAs the Steelers prepare for the regular season, the question remains: should Johnson remain on the roster, or has Pittsburgh already seen enough? His college pedigree suggests he has the talent to contribute, but the preseason reps tell a different story. With the team’s depth at the position, Johnson’s path to a roster spot is narrowing. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether he can prove his worth or if the Steelers will move on, potentially seeking a trade or simply releasing him. For now, Johnson’s future in Pittsburgh is anything but
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