David Johnson, your new Steelers full time fullback

**BlitzburghRockCity** · 05-23-2012, 01:26 PM

So it appears that Todd Haley is putting at least some type of emphasis on the fullback position after all. According to Ed Bouchette via his blog: Excerpt below.

Steelers just finished their second spring practice and halfback Isaac Redman dropped some news – tight end David Johnson has been moved to fullback on a fulltime basis. He no longer attends meetings with the tight ends and will be part of the running backs meetings.

Redman also said there will be more emphasis put on the running game this season.
Johnson’s move raises a question whether the Steelers will keep two tight ends and one fullback, three tight ends, one fullback and fewer running backs on the roster and, of course, who those will be.

**JensK** · 05-23-2012, 01:28 PM

I can't really say I'm surprised by this.. Nor can I say that I'm super excited about it. But I guess we'll see how that pans out.

**BlitzburghRockCity** · 05-23-2012, 01:33 PM

Johnson's roster spot was in trouble this season even with him having experience as a FB, at least I think so. Now that he's the fulltime blocker he'll likely make the team but then that could mean that Saunders, McCoy, and Paulson are only practice squad candidates. It could go down that way but the more likely scenario in my mind is having 3 TE's still because if one goes down and DJ goes back to TE, you've lost your FB.

**coldrolled** · 05-23-2012, 02:40 PM

85 is 85% chance gone... Once Haley sees his blocking ability as a FB he will be the odd man out.

**K Train** · 05-23-2012, 02:54 PM

they tendered him, that doesnt usually equate to a roster spot in jeopardy

i think hes a decent lead blocker

**coldrolled** · 05-23-2012, 02:56 PM

i would rather see new blood at FB

**steelcitysfinestXL** · 05-23-2012, 03:00 PM

I remember his first season he was more of a fullback role. He blew up quite a few people as a lead blocker but he tended to miss as many as he hit.

**Number99** · 05-23-2012, 03:00 PM

So unless Will Johnson beats him out or they sign another proven FB (unlikely) DJ will prob have a new number in the 30's or 40's and be on the 53 week 1.