Chiefs’ Fifth-Round Pick Emmett Johnson Makes Debut Amid Rushing Concerns
Emmett Johnson, selected 161st overall, steps onto the field for the first time as a professional, joining a unit that struggled significantly in rushing last season.
Former Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson made his professional debut on Saturday afternoon, logging 12 carries for 59 yards in the Kansas City Chiefs’ 20-12 preseason defeat against the Los Angeles Rams. The performance marks the first on-field appearance for the fifth-round draft pick, who was selected with the 161st overall pick in the recent NFL draft.
Johnson arrives in Kansas City following a standout collegiate career, having been named the Big Ten Running Back of the Year last season. During his final year with the Huskers, he recorded 1,451 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns across 12 games, while adding 46 receptions for 370 yards. Over his entire tenure at Nebraska, Johnson appeared in 41 games, accumulating 2,460 rushing yards on 458 carries.
The Minneapolis native holds the distinction of being the first Nebraska running back selected in the NFL draft since Ameer Abdullah was taken by the Detroit Lions in the second round. His transition to the professional level comes as the Chiefs seek to address a significant deficiency in their offensive strategy.
Last season, the Chiefs ranked near the bottom of the National Football League in rushing. Kareem Hunt led the team’s ground attack with 611 rushing yards, a total that highlighted the unit’s overall lack of production. Johnson’s addition is viewed as a strategic move to inject more potency into the rushing attack.
While Johnson is expected to contribute immediately, his role is anticipated to evolve beyond special teams assignments as the regular season progresses. The coaching staff has indicated that Johnson remains flexible, ready to perform any task required to support the team’s objectives as he establishes himself in the league.
