Emmett Johnson was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round as the 161st pick. He had an impressive final season at Nebraska, earning accolades and now joins a competitive backfield.
Key points
Emmett Johnson drafted by Kansas City Chiefs in fifth round
Johnson had 1,451 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 2025
He is the first Husker running back drafted since Ameer Abdullah
Johnson joins a competitive backfield with Kenneth Walker
Fans reacted positively to Johnson's selection
Emmett JohnsonKansas City ChiefsNebraska CornhuskersDetroit Lions
Johnson had a tremendous final season with the Huskers in 2025. He tallied 241 carries for 1,451 yards and 12 touchdowns. He was a key piece of the offense and carried the team on his back in multiple games. Now, he will have a chance to blossom with one of the best organizations in the NFL.
The Minneapolis native is the first Husker running back selected in the NFL draft since the Detroit Lions selected Ameer Abdullah with pick 54 in the second round. Johnson was named the Big Ten Running Back of the Year for his performance last season.
Nebraska and Chiefs fans were excited for Johnsonâs selections. We compiled some of the best reactions from social media and placed them below.
Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson is @PSchragsâ favorite NFL prospect in the draft đ
âJohnson was a beast last year⊠he seems to do it all. Now, he doesnât have that top-line speed, but I love producersâespecially in big conferencesâwho step up and play in big games.â pic.twitter.com/d7mOyjJvol
â Check the Mic with Steve Palazzolo & Sam Monson (@CTM_Show) April 22, 2026
#Chiefs No. 161 pick, RB Emmett Johnson says he's ready to get to work in Kansas City.
He adds, "My whole life I've been passed on and doubted, so I just know that as long as I got faith in myself and my abilities, nothing else matters." pic.twitter.com/MZT3dbIRIU
â Sports Radio 810 WHB (@SportsRadio810) April 25, 2026
Playmaker!
Emmett Johnson is the pick at No. 161!
Johnson was the only player in the FBS to average more than 150 scrimmage yards-per-game in 2025. He led the Big 10 with 1,451 rushing yards and finished second among all FBS running backs in catches (46). Scored 15 TDs, too.