The preseason is more about evaluation than results, but for the players, it is about much more. The Green Bay Packers have a decision to make with undrafted rookie running back Amar Johnson.
While the Packers have three-time Pro Bowler Josh Jacobs entrenched as the starting running back — and Emanuel Wilson likely solidified as his backup — Johnson made a strong case to make the final 53-man roster during the preseason.
His performance stood out enough to earn him a spot on CBS Sports’ All-Preseason Team.
Packers UDFA Amar Johnson earns spot on All-Preseason Team
Johnson had a strong collegiate career for the FCS-level South Dakota State Jackrabbits. He ran for 3,196 yards and 28 touchdowns on 537 carries while adding 518 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 57 receptions. His playmaking also showed on special teams as he returned 21 kickoffs for 440 yards.
Despite his play, he went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft — likely due to playing at a small school. Johnson showed that teams may have made a mistake.
He finished the preseason with 115 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries, while adding two receptions for 21 yards. Johnson doesn’t have a clear path to making the 53-man roster. However, his strong play may simply be too much to ignore. If Green Bay does attempt to cut him and stash him on the practice squad, it is likely that his preseason performance would lead another team to claim him off waivers.
Johnson was one of two running backs to earn a spot on the CBS Sports All-Preseason Team, along with TreVeyon Henderson, who the New England Patriots selected in the second round.
Johnson’s inclusion on the team may come as a surprise to those who haven’t been paying attention, but the undrafted free agent showed that he can contribute in both the running and passing game in limited action.
