Why Rahmir Johnson could be RB1 for Nebraska football

The way Nebraska football under-utilized Rahmir Johnson during the 2022 season was criminal. That alone should keep Mark Whipple off of college football sidelines for life.

After comparing Johnson to Brian Westbrook of the Eagles, which was an apt comparison, Nebraska football barely used Johnson that season. It was puzzling.

Last year, Johnson made an early impact as a kick returner but before his role on offense could grow, Johnson suffered a season-ending injury.

In his limited action, Johnson had 12 carries for 65 yards and three receptions for nine yards. In 2022, the stat line was similar: He rushed for 85 yards on 19 carries while catching one pass for seven yards.

For his career, Johnson has averaged 4.3 yards per rushing attempt. He’s averaged 9.3 yards per reception and frankly, he’s one of the best pass protectors at the running back position. 

Running backs coach EJ Barthel said earlier during fall camp that Johnson looks “as good as he has during my time here.”

Rahmir Johnson needs more touches for Nebraska football

The 5-foot-10, 185-pounder might not be built like a starting running back, but it’s not like he’d have the carry the load on his own. Emmett Johnson is also back along with Gabe Ervin and Dante Dowdell.

Nebraska football could have a dangerous running-back-by-committee and in this new era, that’s the best approach. If any of those backs gets 20 carries a game, they’ll have a tough time holding up in the Big Ten.

But that doesn’t mean Johnson should be overlooked in terms of touches. Hell, he’s probably the most dynamic running back Nebraska has. He’s the best receiver and he can make guys miss in the open field.

In 2021, Johnson had a seven-game stretch where he averaged 14 carries per game. He averaged 4.6 yards per attempt in that span while also catching 16 passes for 197 yards.

That’s impressive production and I believe Johnson could produce like that again for Nebraska football. He just needs to stay healthy and beyond that, he needs an opportunity.

Whether he starts or not is irrelevant, but Johnson could be RB1 for the Huskers this season, at least in terms of total touches, and at the very least, this staff has to find a way to get him involved.

He’s too good to be sitting on the sidelines.

With Dylan Raiola playing quarterback, the offense will be different and it perfectly suits Johnson, which is another reason to keep an eye on him as RB1.

For More Nebraska content, follow us on Twitter, like our Facebook Page, and Subscribe to the Husker Big Red YouTube Channel. You can also find our podcast on Apple or Spotify.