THE ROOKIE BACK LANDING IN THE PERFECT SYSTEM

Forget the first-round hype; sometimes, the real value lies a bit further down the draft board, especially in a deeper running back class like 2025. This brings us to Kaleb Johnson, the powerful back out of Iowa who landed with the Pittsburgh Steelers. When the Steelers drafted him in the third round, some might have scoffed, thinking he'd be another name in a long line of backs in a traditionally run-heavy team. But those who understand Arthur Smith's offense and Mike Tomlin's philosophy know this is a match made in dynasty heaven.

The initial reports out of Steelers' mini-camp and early OTAs have been incredibly encouraging. Johnson is reportedly showcasing a natural feel for their run schemes and a physical style that perfectly aligns with what they want to do. He’s a decisive, downhill runner with excellent vision who consistently churns out tough yards and breaks tackles, often appearing to glide through openings despite his size. His running style, marked by patience behind the line and explosive burst through creases, draws strong comparisons to a prime Arian Foster in his Texans days. Steelers RB Coach Eddie Faulkner recently stated,

This isn't just coach-speak. This is a clear signal that Johnson is not merely a depth piece; he's being groomed for a significant, immediate role, especially with the departure of Najee Harris.

So, what should we expect from Johnson in his rookie year?

So, why isn't Kaleb Johnson being screamed about from the mountaintops? It's the dreaded "lack of elite pass-catching" narrative that often sticks to these powerful, early-down backs. While he wasn't a huge volume receiver in college, his overall game, particularly his vision and ability to break tackles, is exceptional. The market is likely undervaluing him because he's not a perceived three-down back in the mold of some of the higher-drafted rookies.

Looking at the latest DLF ADP (check the site, but as of early June, Kaleb Johnson is being drafted around RB20, 58th overall. This is in contrast to his potential production in Pittsburgh. With Najee Harris gone, the Steelers are looking for a new bell-cow to pair with Jaylen Warren. Warren, who re-signed on a one-year restricted free agent tender, is expected to continue his role as the dynamic, change-of-pace back and the primary receiving option out of the backfield. While he's shown flashes of leading the backfield, he's never truly been an every-down grinder, and the Steelers under Arthur Smith are likely to lean heavily on a more powerful, early-down runner.

Johnson, at 6'1", 224 lbs, fits that bill perfectly. In his final college season (2024), he exploded for 1,537 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns on 240 carries, averaging a phenomenal 6.4 yards per attempt. He also showed an improved receiving game with 22 catches for 188 yards and 2 touchdowns, demonstrating he's not a complete liability in the passing game. This production and profile scream workhorse potential in a zone-heavy scheme, which is exactly what Arthur Smith loves to run.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: the unexpected signing of Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh. Some might think this shifts the offense to a more pass-heavy approach, but the Steelers have been in the top 10 in rushing attempts in the NFL over the last three seasons. Rodgers, at 41, isn't the scrambling magician he once was. While he's still a Hall of Fame arm, his presence actually benefits a strong running game. A legitimate ground threat forces defenses to respect the run, opening up play-action and easier throwing lanes for Rodgers. Furthermore, a top-tier quarterback helps keep the offense on the field, leading to more scoring opportunities and more red-zone touches – precisely where a power back like Johnson thrives.

This isn't a scenario where the running game gets abandoned; it's one where a more efficient, high-powered offense allows a talented runner to convert opportunities into fantasy points. The signal here is that while the market is still fixated on perceived receiving limitations and the shiny new QB, the opportunity for early-down volume and goal-line work in a run-heavy, physical offense (now potentially even more efficient with Rodgers) is screaming for your attention.

This is where your DLF subscription becomes your secret weapon, allowing you to snag undervalued rookies before your league mates even realize what they've missed.

First, jump into the DLF Dynasty Trade Analyzer. While you might not be trading for Johnson just yet in your rookie drafts, use the Analyzer to compare his rookie pick value (say, a late 1st, early 2nd round pick) against other players currently being drafted in that range. You'll often find his raw talent, the clear path to touches, and his upside are drastically undervalued compared to veterans or less certain rookie situations. This helps you confirm the value proposition.

Then, hit the DLF Trade Finder. Search for "Kaleb Johnson + rookie pick" or variations. You'll see real trades from real dynasty leagues. Here are just four recent deals that stood out, showcasing how he's being valued right now:

• 🔄 Kaleb Johnson for a veteran WR like DJ Moore or Terry McLaurin

• 🔄 Kaleb Johnson for 2025 2.02 and 3.08 rookie picks

• 🔄 Kaleb Johnson and Jameson Williams for Tyler Warren

You'll likely find managers acquiring him for relatively low capital – sometimes just a late 2nd, or even bundled with a lesser player to get a perceived "upgrade." This is your opportunity. The Trade Finder shows you the market today, allowing you to capitalize on the lag before the rest of the world realizes the immediate impact potential Johnson brings to one of the league's most run-centric offenses. Stop guessing and start dominating.

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