Takeaways from the morning after the Steelers’ preseason opener.
Coverage from Yahoo Sports Nfl
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-1.3 impact
The Morning After: Writing is on the wall for Steelers RB Kaleb Johnson
Steelers RB Kaleb Johnson's performance in preseason opener suggests he may lose starting role
Fantasy Implication reviewed impact -1.3
Kaleb Johnson's rookie draft capital (Round 3) was supposed to give him a runway to compete for the Steelers' lead back job over Jaylen Warren, but a poor preseason debut suggests the coaching staff isn't ready to hand him the keys. This is a significant blow to his dynasty and best-ball value, as Pittsburgh's backfield was already crowded with Warren entrenched as the incumbent and Warren's contract situation actually favoring stability there. If Johnson can't separate in camp, he risks falling into a rotational or even inactive role early in the season, which tanks his redraft ADP in the 8-10 round range where he was being valued as a potential breakout handcuff/committee back.
Downgrade Kaleb Johnson in dynasty rookie rankings and best-ball drafts
Prioritize Jaylen Warren as the safer, higher-floor Steelers RB in redraft leagues
Monitor remaining preseason snaps/carries before finalizing draft-day valuations on either back
Avoid drafting Johnson as a standalone RB2 handcuff until camp reports clarify role