28-04-2025
Mike Tomlin addresses concerns about Kaleb Johnson's speed on Steelers offense
Mike Tomlin addresses concerns about Kaleb Johnson's speed on Steelers offense
Concerns have already begun to circulate around the newest Steelers running back, third-rounder Kaleb Johnson out of Iowa.
Johnson, measuring 6'1" and weighing 224 pounds, is a bruiser-style running back who ran a 4.57 at the scouting combine — not exactly the speedy rusher the Steelers were reportedly targeting in the draft.
HC Mike Tomlin, however, reminded everyone that there is a difference between game speed and 40 times. When asked about the Iowa Hawkeye's top-end speed concerns at the Steelers' Post-Draft Press Conference, Tomlin clarified that no one is worried:
'We didn't question his speed whatsoever watching the video — and oftentimes that's the case. You can watch video and be really excited about someone's speed, or you can go to the combine and get excited by their 40 time. His speed was not in question on the video. He broke a lot of long runs in the Big Ten, as we talked about earlier.'
Johnson will likely push RB Jaylen Warren for the Steelers' RB1 role, as the Iowa Hawkeye proved in 2024 that he can contribute right away for any offense.
