The Pittsburgh Steelers had the opportunity to select quarterback Shedeur Sanders with the 83rd overall pick in the NFL Draft — a surprising drop no one predicted — but chose to pass on him. Instead, they opted for Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson.
Johnson had a standout 2024 season, rushing for 1,537 yards on 6.4 yards per carry and scoring 21 touchdowns. He also added 22 receptions for 188 yards. Coming into college as a three-star recruit from Hamilton High School in Ohio, Johnson’s rise has been remarkable. At 6-foot-1 and 224 pounds, he brings power and size to the Steelers’ backfield and appears to be a natural replacement for Najee Harris. He’ll likely pair up with Jaylen Warren to form a dynamic rushing duo.
The pick seems to confirm speculation that the Steelers are confident about landing veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Given that their current quarterback room only includes Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson, passing on Sanders might suggest they’re not planning to rely on a young QB. Rodgers’ arrival seems increasingly likely, and with the way the draft has unfolded, there’s even a chance Sanders could still be available later — which would be another twist in an already unpredictable draft.
Elsewhere in the draft, notable stories include Jack Bech honoring his late brother with his selection by the Raiders, TreVeyon Henderson complementing new Patriots QB Drake Maye, and the Saints making a puzzling pick in Tyler Shough ahead of Sanders. The Jets selected the son of a rival team’s Hall of Famer, and the Cardinals grabbed a top-10 talent at pick 47. Other highlights include the Seahawks’ Elijah Arroyo and his impressive stat line, R.J. Harvey joining the Broncos, and the Commanders securing a major steal with Trey Amos. The Cowboys picked a new pass-rushing partner for Micah Parsons, the Browns drafted a record-breaking tight end, and the Lions took a former Division II standout receiver.