The Green Bay Packers are reportedly making a big move to shore up their backfield, acquiring running back Kaleb Johnson in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers. This deal comes as Packers running back Josh Jacobs is facing potential league discipline, leaving his status for the early season up in the air.
Johnson’s Struggles in Steeltown Are Over
Johnson, a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Iowa, never really found his footing in the Steelers’ offense. With Jaylen Warren and the recently signed Rico Dowdle firmly ahead of him on the depth chart, Johnson became the odd man out in Pittsburgh. His opportunities were super limited since he joined the league, appearing in just 10 games. He logged 28 carries for 69 yards, averaging a dismal 2.5 yards per carry. That’s a polar opposite to the production he put up back in his Hawkeye days.
What Johnson Means for the Packers’ Backfield
Without Jacobs on the field to start the year, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is going to rely on former third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd, Chris Brooks, and now Johnson to handle the rushing load. While Johnson’s NFL career has started slow, his college production at Iowa was bell-cow level, making him a top running back prospect in the 2025 draft. He ripped off 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns, averaging 6.4 yards per carry. If he can tap into that groove again, the Packers might have found a huge addition to their room. Jacobs might be out of commission for the season opener, but the thought of Lloyd and Johnson forming a young, dynamic duo is something to keep an eye on.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Fox Sports.
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