UNITY TWP., Pa. — Pittsburgh Steelers rookie running back Kaleb Johnson has made an early impression at training camp, breaking off several explosive runs that showcase the burst and vision which made him a third-round pick in April. But as the team prepares for its first padded practice Tuesday, the true test of Johnson's readiness is about to begin: pass protection.
"I'm working every day to get better in that role," Johnson said. "Everything else is falling into place, but that's the main thing we're focusing on right now, pass protection."
Johnson's slashing style and ability to read zone blocking make him a natural fit for Arthur Smith's offense. But despite his athletic traits, his ability to stay on the field will hinge on whether he can keep Aaron Rodgers clean on passing downs , a task that's proven to be the downfall of many promising young backs.
Pittsburgh's coaching staff places heavy emphasis on the "backs-on-backers" drill, where running backs face linebackers one-on-one in simulated blitz pickup. It's a rite of passage that helped launch Jaylen Warren 's career in 2022, when he demonstrated a surprising aptitude for blitz pickup as an undrafted free agent and carved out a role as a trusted third-down back.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson at OTAs on May 28, 2025. — Ed Thompson / Steelers now
Johnson, for his part, isn't backing down from the challenge.
"Anybody who ever gets lined up or put in my face, I'm ready," he said.
Pass protection was one of the primary knocks on Johnson during the pre-draft process, a factor that contributed to his slide to Day 2. If he wants to earn consistent snaps in a backfield alongside Jaylen Warren, particularly in high-leverage passing situations, his development as a blocker will be key.
With Rodgers running the offense and the Steelers eyeing a playoff push, keeping the future Hall of Famer upright is priority No. 1. In many cases, that responsibility falls on the running back when protections break down.
Johnson has the tools to be a difference-maker. But if he wants to evolve from an explosive change-of-pace option into an every-down contributor, maybe even a future bell cow, it starts with proving he can protect the quarterback.
The next few days in pads will be telling.
Alan Saunders and Brendan Howe provided reporting from St. Vincent College.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Kaleb Johnson Knows How He Must Improve to Make Rookie Impact
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