Emmett Johnson likely won't go in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, but the Nebraska football star might not have to wait long to hear his name called. The running back has gotten more and more love from NFL analysts, including Mel Kiper, who named EJ among his favorite players.
As Kiper said in his recent ESPN column, his favorite players in any given draft aren't always the absolute best. However, guys like Emmett Johnson managed to gain a special place in the guru's heart. To the former Husker's credit, he's managed to do that with quite a few analysts who saw a guy willing to test at the combine after a breakout final season in Lincoln.
Emmett Johnson among Mel Kiper's favorites as he aims to give Nebraska NFL Draft bragging rights
"Johnson is a one-cut-and-go back who carried the load for the Cornhuskers last season," Kiper wrote about the Nebraska star. "He had 251 carries for 1,451 yards (fourth in the FBS) and 12 touchdowns. At 5-foot-10 and 202 pounds, he is a compact back who displays burst through the hole and finishes his runs. Johnson was fourth in the nation with 93 forced missed tackles last season."
"But he's also a playmaker in the passing game, totaling 85 catches over the past two seasons (656 yards, five TDs). Among FBS running backs, that ranks third over that time. He has reliable hands, and he can be a three-down back in the pros. Johnson was the glue of that Nebraska team last season, and his coaches rave about him. I have him as my RB3, and he should be a third- or fourth-round pick.
Nebraska could see Emmett Johnson go on Friday
If the former Husker does go in the 3rd round, it would mean the first time in a while a player from NU went on the second day of the NFL Draft.
If the Nebraska football star does last until the 4th round, Emmett Johnson won't be selected until Saturday, but he could end up one of the steals of this year's draft.
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