The Nebraska football program was represented in the NFL draft as the Kansas City Chiefs selected running back Emmett Johnson in the fifth round with the 161st pick. Johnson joins a backfield that includes the likes of Kenneth Walker and a Chiefs team that is reloading for a run at the playoffs
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 Johnson’s selections. We compiled some of the best reactions from social media and placed them below.
Not sure who was more excited for the call, @Emmett21Johnson or his mom 😂❤️ pic.twitter.com/WORNmV8cGs
Emmitt Johnson’s conversation with the coaching staff had me in tears 🥺How can you not root for this kid?He’s going to be a fan favorite QUICKLY ❤️🔥🎥 | emmettj_ on IG pic.twitter.com/8ESKpOeaM8
"I love Emmett Johnson. I think he was probably one of the most instinctive runners of this entire draft class."Ran Carthon says Emmett Johnson is his hidden gem from the final day of the NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/r6HM5OIkGe
Emmitt Johnson led all draft-eligible RBs with 1,450 rushing yards and 68 missed tackles forced last season 👀🔥Also ranked top 5 in 10+ yard runsThat’s an absolute STEAL in the 5th round 💪🏾 pic.twitter.com/92fR7gx0BC
Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson is @PSchrags’ favorite NFL prospect in the draft 👀“Johnson was a beast last year… he seems to do it all. Now, he doesn’t have that top-line speed, but I love producers—especially in big conferences—who step up and play in big games.” pic.twitter.com/d7mOyjJvol
— Check the Mic with Steve Palazzolo & Sam Monson (@CTM_Show) April 22, 2026
Bookmark this, football fans.It's so ridiculous that Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson hasn't been drafted into the NFL as the 4th round wraps up.Whoever gets him is going to have an absolute steal.Don't stress, @Emmett21Johnson. We'll be watching you on Sundays. #GBR pic.twitter.com/NXtAXOwCAP
— Keith Malinak ATMshow.com (@KeithMalinak) April 25, 2026
Staying close to home to preview a standout RB in this year's Draft, Emmett Johnson of @HuskerFootball. pic.twitter.com/SCuLdL0V66
RB Emmett Johnson to the Chiefs43% team touches57% team rush attempts38% team yards from scrimmageall #1 in RB class2nd in team TDs2nd in team receptionsonly 8.4% of his runs failed to gain yardage#1 in RB classwhen hit at or behind the line, he still gained…
HILARIOUS: Kansas City #Chiefs running back Emmett Johnson posted this video dancing on TikTok after he was drafted yesterday.💀💀💀Will fit right in KC. pic.twitter.com/8U8UobPos0
#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
— Sports Radio 810 WHB (@SportsRadio810) April 25, 2026
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.Playmaker!
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This article originally appeared on Cornhuskers Wire: Social media excited by Emmett Johnson heading to Kansas City Chiefs