Could Warren's Injury Warren’s Mean More Opportunities For Rookie Kaleb Johnson?

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It’s no secret that Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson’s rookie season has not unfolded as hoped. Still carrying the weight of a costly kickoff return miscue in the Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Johnson saw limited action in Week 3.

However, news of Jaylen Warren’s knee injury could present an unexpected opportunity for the rookie this Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland.

Warren has served as the clear lead back since Najee Harris departed for Los Angeles, but even a minor injury raises questions about how Pittsburgh might adjust its backfield rotation. Kenneth Gainwell remains the primary backup, while Trey Sermon has seen snaps after being elevated from the practice squad. Yet it’s Johnson who stands to gain the most from any shakeup in the depth chart.

To date, Johnson has struggled to earn meaningful playing time, often overshadowed by more experienced backs. That dynamic could shift if Warren’s availability or effectiveness is compromised.

Notably, the Steelers have continued to keep Johnson active on game days—a signal that they still see untapped potential. With Warren’s status uncertain, Johnson may be called upon to contribute, especially if the team opts to rest its starter or reduce his workload.

For Kaleb Johnson, the opportunity to demonstrate his value and recapture the form that made him one of college football’s premier running backs last season at Iowa is likely one he’s been anticipating. Should Jaylen Warren’s knee issue persist, Johnson may finally have the chance to establish his place in Pittsburgh’s backfield rotation.