Steelers choose Johnson in the third round

“Perfect fit of every run scheme that you run. He ran several in Iowa. In the course of the game, really impressive as a volume runner, and one of the most impressive statistics you saw is the fourth quarter – which was on average in the fourth quarter.

“We believe that it fits a great culture. Obviously, extremely enthusiastic to get Kaleb in here.”

Johnson met the Steelers during a visit before disappointing the Upmc Rooney Sports Complex and felt comfort with the team from the start.

“It was great from the jump,” said Johnson. “As soon as I came in, they greeted me. I and (return) coach (Eddie) Faulkner, we spoke from heart to heart. I and he know what we have to do now to get out. I will give them everything.

“Mike Tomlin in general, he told me that he likes me as a player and he wants me to come. I told him let it do it. It was all in God’s hands. That is all I can say.”

Johnson appeared in 35 games, from 22, for the Hawkeyes. He wore the ball 508 times for 2,779 yards and 30 touchdowns for his career. Johnson also had 29 receptions for 240 yards and two touchdowns.

Johnson said he was ready for the workload of Steelers’ work and was ready to get started.

“I generally feel the relationship with the players who learns from coach Faulkner,” said Johnson. “Me and Jaylen Warren, we will be good together.

“I can’t wait to work. I’m just excited.”

Johnson was the 17th player in school history, who hurried over 2,000 yards, and was the 51st player in school history, who hurried over 1,000 career values. He was also the fifth player in the history of Iowa, who recorded two over 200 yard rushing games.

He also has 12 100-yard rushing games, which takes sixth place in school history.

In 2024 he performed in 12 games with 11 games and had 240 Carry for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns, all career highs.