Najee Harris had durable, reliable and tough claws running between tackles. He broke more explosive plays than he would get credit for, but no one used the adjective “explosive” when describing his game. This is the phrase that Arthur Smith used when discussing RB Kaleb Johnson’s choice of Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft (multiple times).
With just a 40-yard dash time and body measurement, Harris and Johnson seem to be similar players. But after putting on tape for a few minutes, it’s a quick difference. PG Steelers Insider Ray Fittipaldo believes Johnson will prove to be far more explosive than Harris has been in Pittsburgh before.
“I think they’re coming back faster,” Fittipaldo said Friday. 93.7 Fan Pump and Joe Show. “Will he be the home run batsman they want? I don’t know if he’ll be that in those 40 hours, but I think he’ll be a lot more explosive than Najee Harris.”
Harris was on a more physical and running back, while Johnson played more finesse. His patience and vision allow him to avoid runners by setting up blocks and routinely identifying paths with the least resistance. It was by no means a strong suit from Harris. There may be more explosive rides with Johnson compared to Harris, but I expect there to be far more rides in the 7-10 yard range.
If Johnson gets an upgrade, where will it leave the running back room overall with free agent signer Kenneth Gainewell?
“We have to do better,” Fittipaldo said. “I think Kaleb Johnson is better suited to this attack, and I think it’s worth a lot. [Cordarrelle] Patterson… Kenneth Gainwell is a much better player. I think it would be better if he got those touches. I think they have a chance to make the run back significantly better. ”
Gainwell’s addition is covered by Johnson, but he has fresher legs than 34-year-old Patterson, so it should help provide a big play on the third down.
It also didn’t mention Jalen Warren, who dealt with all the injuries he had last season, and it was probably not as effective as he was. If Johnson and Gainwell are upgraded and Warren is healthy, it will be a much better room.
Smith said at a post-picking press conference for Johnson that he had to pivot from his preferred offensive plan for staff he was available last season. Whether it’s Harris or the offensive line, both variables need to be improved this year. Johnson is great for external zone play, but the offensive line has the chance to take a big step with better health and more experience.
