SerpApi.Org
The Pittsburgh Steelers' running back room has become one of the most intriguing position battles entering the 2026 season. After Kenneth Gainwell's departure and the arrival of Rico Dowdle, the competition behind projected starters Jaylen Warren and Dowdle has intensified, leaving second-year running back Kaleb Johnson fighting for his NFL future.
Johnson struggled to establish himself during his rookie campaign after a costly special teams mistake against the Seattle Seahawks landed him in the coaching staff's doghouse. The former Iowa star rarely saw meaningful offensive opportunities afterward, making his second training camp with the organization especially important.
Adding to the challenge is veteran Travis Homer, who remains one of the Steelers' most reliable special teams contributors. Since the third running back on the depth chart is often active primarily because of special teams value, Homer's experience creates another obstacle Johnson must overcome.
Special teams could determine Johnson's future
According to The Athletic's Mike DeFabo, the competition between Johnson and Homer could become one of the most closely watched battles throughout training camp and the preseason. While Johnson entered the league with an impressive collegiate résumé, Pittsburgh's coaching staff must determine whether he can contribute in all three phases of the game.
DeFabo noted that Johnson appeared hesitant as a rookie after his special teams error, a noticeable change from the confident and patient runner who excelled in Iowa's wide-zone offense. A new coaching staff and a fresh start could help him regain that confidence, but proving himself on special teams may be the fastest path back onto the field.
The Steelers also face a difficult roster-management decision. Waiving Johnson could expose the former third-round pick to waiver claims, allowing another running back-needy team to acquire a young player with significant upside. Homer, because of his veteran status and specialized role, may actually be easier to bring back through the practice squad if necessary.
Pittsburgh must balance the present with the future
One scenario suggested by DeFabo would keep Johnson on the initial 53-man roster while using Homer as a practice squad elevation on game days. That approach would allow Pittsburgh to preserve Johnson's long-term potential without immediately sacrificing its special teams performance.
Johnson's challenge is complicated further by the fact that both Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle are under contract through the 2027 season. Without injuries ahead of him on the depth chart, offensive opportunities may remain extremely limited, making every preseason snap and every special teams rep critical to his development.
For the Steelers, moving on from a talented third-round pick after only one season would represent a significant gamble. Johnson still possesses the vision and running ability that made him one of college football's top backs at Iowa, but he must prove he can contribute beyond offense. If he embraces that challenge during training camp, Pittsburgh could still be rewarded for remaining patient with one of its most intriguing young playmakers.
