Pittsburgh Steelers kick returner Kaleb Johnson experienced a rough moment during their game against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. In the fourth quarter, after the Seahawks kicker Jason Myers scored a field goal, Johnson failed to properly handle the kickoff. Instead of controlling the ball, it rebounded into the end zone, allowing the Seahawks to recover it for a touchdown. This turn of events likely contributed to what may be one of the easiest touchdowns Seattle scores this season.
Following that, the Steelers did manage to get some points on their next drive with a field goal. However, the Seahawks then pressed their advantage with Kenneth Walker III, who sealed the game with a 19-yard touchdown run, leading to a 31-17 victory for Seattle.
After the game, Johnson took responsibility, stating, “I just made a mistake. Sticking to it, go ahead and keep getting better every day.” Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin commented on this incident, pointing out “poor judgment by young players.” Johnson, who was drafted in the third round out of Iowa State, had only one rushing attempt the previous week against the New York Jets and didn’t contribute offensively during the Seahawks game.
In a reflective moment, Johnson added, “I’m getting better every day. That’s it. I have to say about this… I’m just going there every day right now, working even harder with a chip on my shoulder.” It’s worth mentioning that the NFL has rules regarding kickoffs, indicating that balls kicked into the area between the 20-yard line and the goal line must be returned or downed unless designated as a live ball. Johnson, however, didn’t clarify if he was aware of these rules.
