The Green Bay Packers are adding some running back insurance with three-time Pro Bowler Josh Jacobs' future uncertain. The team traded for Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson on Sunday, per multiple reports. Terms of the deal have not yet been announced, but Johnson alluded to the deal on social media:
It would appear Kaleb Johnson is on the move to the Green Bay Packers, per his IG story pic.twitter.com/BakHgAfkoK
— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) August 30, 2026
Johnson's move to Green Bay provides a fresh start for the maligned Day 2 pick, as well as a potential opportunity to see snaps. Jacobs was placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List on Sunday. The running back was charged Thursday with misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor criminal damage to property following a May arrest that stemmed from what police described as a physical confrontation with his girlfriend. The news creates uncertainty regarding Jacobs' availability in 2026 and, potentially, his future in Green Bay.
The depth chart behind Jacobs previously consisted of an oft-injured MarShawn Lloyd and third-down option Chris Brooks. Johnson adds a power element to the backfield. He could earn a significant role if Lloyd suffers another health setback.
A third-round pick of the Steelers in 2025, Johnson struggled through his rookie campaign. The RB had just 28 rushing attempts for 69 yards (2.5 per attempt) and saw just 50 offensive snaps over 10 games, never logging more than 11 reps in a single tilt. His most notable play last season was a botched kickoff return in Week 2 against Seattle, with the youngster inexplicably allowing the Seahawks to recover the ball in the end zone for a pivotal score in the Steelers' loss. Then-coach Mike Tomlin ended Johnson's special teams duties after the embarrassing mistake.
With Mike McCarthy taking over in Pittsburgh, the Steelers signed veteran back Rico Dowdle to pair with Jaylen Warren. Dowdle brings a physical element that made Johnson's presence on the roster superfluous. The second-year running back appeared to be a cut candidate throughout the preseason, as he struggled to find his footing, averaging just 3.1 YPC over 17 preseason totes. Travis Homer, a pass-catching option, seemed a better fit in McCarthy's offense to fill out the depth chart.