The Pittsburgh Steelers have completed training camp, and a lot of information has emerged from those practices.
The Steelers had several roster-bubble players who either improved their standing or potentially sealed their fate early.
One of the most crucial opportunities camp presented was for 2025 third-round pick Kaleb Johnson. After a rough rookie season, he needed a strong camp to bounce back.
However, after the first preseason game and recent comments from head coach Mike McCarthy, Johnson may firmly be on the outside looking in. He was drafted by the previous coaching staff but now finds himself in a crowded running back room.
The Steelers probably don’t want to release him. Could they trade him? It’s a long shot, but there are a few teams that could be potential suitors. The compensation would likely be minimal.
Here are three teams the Steelers could gauge interest in a potential trade:
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons don’t really need additional running back help, but Johnson could still be their third running back. He was frequently compared to former Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier during the draft process. Allgeier signed with the Arizona Cardinals, who have a surplus of running backs.
The Falcons had a lot of success on the ground with Bijan Robinson and Allgeier as a duo. Perhaps Johnson could carve out a similar role in Atlanta and get the fresh start he needs.
New York Giants
Cam Skattebo’s health will always be somewhat of a concern based on how aggressively he plays. The Giants also brought in former Steelers running back Najee Harris for a visit.
Perhaps the Giants are keeping all options open and seeing what the market looks like. If they brought in Harris, though, that could be a preferable move to trading draft assets to the Steelers for an unproven back.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The Jaguars’ running back depth doesn’t feel particularly strong, but they don’t seem too worried about it. They let their 2021 first-round pick hit free agency and haven’t been particularly aggressive in adding to the room. That said, Johnson could be a fit if they decided to reevaluate their options.
Like the other teams on this list, Johnson wouldn’t be the starter. Instead, he’d be an RB3 looking for opportunities in a fresh setting. There’s no telling, though, what opportunities could open up later this season with a new team.
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