Hey Nerds! Welcome to the Dynasty Nerds 2026 Rookie Profile Series, where we break down the top prospects from the upcoming NFL Draft using the All-22 Film, production data, and dynasty-specific context.
This profile focuses on Emmett Johnson, a dynamic running back prospect out of Nebraska. Using the Dynasty Nerds Film Room, we’ll examine Johnson’s background, on-field strengths, areas for development, and projected dynasty outlook in 12-Team SuperFlex PPR formats.
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Height: 5’11’’
Weight: 200 lbs
Emmett Johnson was one of the most productive RBs in the entire country in 2025. A 3-star recruit out of Academy of Holy Angels in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Johnson has been one of the most versatile runners in the nation over the past couple of seasons. Over that span, he has averaged over 5.0 ypc and caught at least 39 passes each season. That might not sound like a lot, but when you add up the numbers over the last two seasons of his collegiate career, he has averaged 3.4 catches per game. That is a really solid rate. For the sake of context, that would be well within the top 10 for NFL RBs. You can check out his stats below.
You can clearly see from his career numbers that Johnson got better each year in the college ranks. He was the engine that helped move the Cornhuskers offense in 2025. He was an incredibly consistent runner, giving his team eight 100-yard games this past season, as well as one incredible game that saw him go for 129 rushing and 103 receiving against UCLA.
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Rookie Profile | Strengths and Weaknesses
The first thing that stands out to me when watching Johnson’s film is his vision and patience. Head Coach Matt Rhule makes extensive use of both run-pass options and zone blocking concepts with his offensive linemen. For those who are unaware, that means the runner will get the ball heading to the right or left side of the offensive formation. The RB then has to essentially pick his hole and get upfield as soon as possible to maximize his yardage. This means it is not like more traditional numbered power blocking concepts, where the RB knows which hole he will be heading to before the ball is snapped. Johnson displayed an amazing feel for these zone blocking schemes.
Another area that Emmett Johnson is extremely proficient in is the passing game. We talked about it earlier, but this RB is truly a weapon in the passing game as well as running. This two-way flexibility will make a player like this incredibly appealing to offenses that pass the ball to the backs out of the backfield. While not an amazing blocker, he has shown a willingness to mix it up with blitzing linebackers to bail out his quarterback.
One area that I was surprised with when it came to Emmett Johnson was his power when running. At only 200 lbs, you are not expecting to see a Nick Chubb-type power back. But, I must say I was impressed at how well he ran with strength and power behind his pads. He did a sufficient job of getting low and running behind his full body weight.
While not a burner by nature, Johnson does play with quickness and suddenness both in and out of his cuts. I saw on multiple occasions where his quick feet got him out of trouble in the hole, allowing him to bounce the ball inside and outside in the same sequence. This nice change of direction, along with his excellent vision, made him one of the more dangerous backs in the Big 10.
Emmett Johnson | All 22 Film Breakdown
One of the biggest benefits of a Nerd Herd Subscription is access to our All 22-Film Room. This amazing resource is a must-have for any true dynasty enthusiast. The All 22 tape gives you more than just the generic highlights of a player. You get to see what he is doing on plays where he doesn’t get the ball. Is he putting in maximum effort? Is he putting himself in the right place? Does he pick up blitzing linebackers? You get to see it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly.
As we are talking about Emmett Johnson, you have to check out the UCLA film. This is the game I spoke of earlier, where he blistered the Bruins for over 100 as a runner and receiver while also chipping in 3 total TDs. He was Mr. Do-it-all in this one, helping lead the Cornhuskers to a 28-21 victory. It is incredibly satisfying watching this prospect pick his way through a defense. He has an incredible feel for the cutback lane, and you will see it in abundance in this All 22. Just count how many times you see him cut it one way, then in the hole bounce it the complete opposite direction. Truly excellent vision.
Draft Capital | Landing Spots
Emmett Johnson couldn’t have picked a better class to come out in if he tried. This year, the class is wide open behind the consensus top RB Jeremiyah Love. Some of the better prospects that could have come out have decided to go back to school for another season. Johnson has bucked this trend and decided to come out of Norman a year early. It is hard to argue with his logic as he was both 1st Team All-Big 10 and 1st Team All-American in 2025. The prospects don’t get much better for a player of this caliber.
In a thin draft class, I believe that Emmett Johnson has a legitimate shot of going sometime between the 2nd and 3rd Round of the upcoming NFL Draft. There are several teams that could use a player like this. Kansas City would be a dream landing spot with his skills akin to a poor man’s Shady McCoy. I would also think that he would be a natural fit with the New York Jets if they decide to move on from Breece Hall. No matter where he lands, Emmett Johnson has the skills to make some noise at the next level.
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🧠 People Also Ask About Emmett Johnson
Who is Emmett Johnson and why is Emmett Johnson a top NFL Draft prospect?
A: Emmett Johnson is a versatile running back from Nebraska who emerged as one of the nation’s most productive backs in 2025, combining consistent rushing output with strong receiving usage in a zone-based offense.
What is Emmett Johnson’s projected NFL Draft range?
A: Based on his production and accolades, Emmett Johnson projects as a Day 2 selection, with a realistic range in Rounds 2–3 of the NFL Draft.
Is Emmett Johnson a good dynasty fantasy football rookie pick?
A: Emmett Johnson profiles as a strong dynasty option due to his three-down skill set, reliable receiving production, and consistent efficiency in both the run and pass game.
What NFL teams are the best potential landing spots for Emmett Johnson?
A: Kansas City and the New York Jets stand out as potential fits, as both offenses could maximize Johnson’s vision, versatility, and pass-catching ability.
