Kaleb Johnson barely saw the field in his first game with the Green Bay Packers, recording no offensive snaps in the Week 1 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The running back played only two snaps on special teams despite Green Bay acquiring him in a trade shortly before the season opener.
Johnson’s limited role in the opener could simply reflect how recently he joined the Packers and how much of the offense he still needs to learn. If that progress continues, Green Bay could give him a larger opportunity in Week 2. Wendell Ferreira of A to Z Sports also identified this week as a good chance for the Packers to get a better look at what the former third round pick can offer.
“The Packers’ running backs in Week 1 were not effective whatsoever,” wrote the NFL analyst.
“MarShawn Lloyd ran for only 2.8 yards per carry, and Chris Brooks was slightly better but also lacked explosiveness. If the Packers used draft capital to acquire Johnson exactly for the purpose of having a potential option while Josh Jacobs is not available, it makes sense to use him now and see what they have in him. Even a few snaps inside the running back rotation on offense would provide valuable information.”
Aug 03, 2026; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson (20) runs during a practice session at Training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Josh Jacobs is still on the Commissioner’s Exempt List with no set return date, but the Packers could have a clearer picture of his availability soon as the legal process moves toward its conclusion. In the meantime, Green Bay has an opportunity to evaluate Johnson more closely and determine what role he can handle before Jacobs eventually returns.
Johnson arrived in Green Bay after being let go by the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have since changed both their coaching staff and offensive system. The former Iowa running back appears better suited to the Packers’ zone based approach than a gap scheme.
Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson (2) stiff arms Northwestern’s Jack Oyola (27) enroute to scoring a touchdown in the second quarter Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.
He had only 28 carries as a rookie, but he brings more college experience and draft pedigree than the other two backs on Green Bay’s roster while also being younger. The Packers acquired him roughly two weeks before the season opener, giving them a reason to bring him along gradually. At this point, though, Johnson has had enough time with the team to warrant a closer look.
Aug 21, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Marshawn Lloyd (32) celebrates his touchdown with guard Sean Rhyan (75) and wide receiver Matthew Golden (0) and tight end Josh Whyle (81) in the first quarter of a preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
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