Steelers Rookie Reflects on Critical Mistake in Loss to Seahawks
PITTSBURGH — Special teams played a vital role in both of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ first two games, but a costly mistake by rookie running back and kick returner Kaleb Johnson became a pivotal moment in their Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
During a routine kickoff, Johnson misjudged the ball as it sailed past his outstretched hands, failing to recognize the new NFL kickoff rules. As a result, the Seahawks recovered the loose football in the Steelers’ end zone, sealing a frustrating turn of events.
It was a defining rookie blunder for the third-round pick from the 2025 NFL Draft, leaving the entire team frustrated. After the game, Johnson took full responsibility for the error, acknowledging that he needed to improve. When asked if he was confused by the rules, he admitted it didn’t matter—he still failed to execute when the team needed him most.
“It doesn’t matter if I was sure or not,” he said. “I still have to go in there and do my job and execute properly.”
This marks the second consecutive week Johnson has struggled as a kick returner. With the Steelers now facing the New England Patriots in Week 3, Johnson’s role in the return game is likely to be reassigned, with running backs Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren filling in.
For Johnson, the key to moving forward is to put the mistake behind him. “Just don’t think about it,” he said. “Keep moving. We’ve got a long season ahead.”
The Steelers, now 1-1 after their 31-17 defeat to Seattle, will travel to Foxborough for Week 3, aiming to bounce back before their international matchup in Dublin, Ireland, against the Minnesota Vikings.
With Johnson’s misstep, his role in the offense might be limited for the next few games. Rookies can lose the coaching staff’s trust quickly in Pittsburgh, and after being given a second chance in Week 2, Johnson’s seat might be getting warmer.
That said, the Steelers’ depth at running back is limited, with only three backs typically on the roster. While Warren had a solid Week 2, Gainwell is better suited for special teams duties. While Johnson may sit out for now, Pittsburgh doesn’t have many other viable options to rely on behind their starting duo.
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