Who Should I Start? Ashton Jeanty or Kaleb Johnson

Wednesday, June 25, 6:15 PM

Las Vegas Raiders rookie first-round running back Ashton Jeanty has made a strong impression within the organization, according to ESPN's Ryan McFadden. Head coach Pete Carroll said Jeanty was "every bit" of what the team hoped for during offseason workouts as he showcased his pass-catching abilities and understanding of the offense. The Boise State product received most of the first-team reps during OTAs and minicamp, an indication that he's already established himself as the team's RB1. "He's such a strong and dynamic back," left tackle Kolton Miller said. "Even if he gets hit, he's still balanced, and that's super unique." There's been talk that the Raiders could use a committee backfield in 2025, but they didn't draft Jeanty sixth overall for that. He's going to cost a pretty penny in fantasy drafts and is already considered a top-five fantasy back going into his rookie campaign.

Friday, July 25, 3:19 PM

PG Sports Now's Brian Batko reports that Pittsburgh Steelers rookie running back Kaleb Johnson was the second RB (behind Jaylen Warren) to work with the first-team offense in training camp practice on Thursday. Johnson is an ideal fit for offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's offense, and although the Steelers have Warren, Kenneth Gainwell, Trey Sermon and Cordarrelle Patterson (undisclosed), Johnson could have a nice little role in his first year in the NFL. Ideally, Johnson would be the No. 2 for Pittsburgh this year next to Warren. His production last year at Iowa was impressive -- 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns on 240 carries -- and he also has the benefit of being in a run-first offense led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Johnson will split touches with Warren, but he has enough big-play ability to be in play as an RB3/flex in fantasy right away.