Steelers Rookies Show Off Their New Threads
Pittsburgh Steelers rookies Will Howard and Kaleb Johnson showed off their new uniforms at the NFLPA Rookie Premiere.
The Pittsburgh Steelers wrapped up their rookie minicamp and are now transitioning toward mandatory minicamp and training camp. Two Steelers rookies, however, were invited to the NFLPA Rookie Premiere.
Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson and Ohio State quarterback Will Howard represented the Steelers at the NFLPA Rookie Premiere. According to the NFLPA, the NFLPA Rookie Premiere offers partners access to the NFL’s newest stars at their first major business and marketing event following the NFL Draft.
This opportunity put Howard and Johnson in the spotlight ahead of their rookie seasons. Both rookies have Steelers fans excited for their potential performances in 2025 and beyond. Johnson is more likely to get the most opportunities of the two, but that hasn’t stopped excitement around Howard as well.
Johnson was selected 83rd overall in the third-round of the 2025 NFL Draft. His powerful running back complements the burst of Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. However, Johnson showed plenty of explosiveness in his time at Iowa despite his 40-yard dash time. He compiled 1,537 rushing yards and 23 all-purpose touchdowns in his junior year at Iowa before declaring for the draft.
Howard was selected 185th overall in the sixth-round of the 2025 NFL Draft. After spending his first four years at Kansas State, Howard transferred to Ohio State. He then led the Buckeyes to their first national title victory in a decade. Despite his draft status, he has caught the eyes of many, including former NFL head coach Jon Gruden.
While it is not certain the level of play time these two will get this season for the Steelers, one thing is for sure: they are donning the black and gold in style.