Gabe Ervin

Johnson is Nebraska’s top returning running back and figures to serve as the team’s backfield leader to start the 2022 season. This will be no small task for the 5-foot-10, 185-pound rusher as the Cornhuskers are in need of improved consistency in nearly every aspect of the offense. Johnson rushed for 4.4 yards per carry and never managed to eclipse 100 yards rushing in any game before missing the team’s final two games due to injury last season. The sophomore back did show his additional value as a pass catcher, however, hauling in 16 passes for 197 yards and two touchdowns through the air. Johnson will likely share carries out of the backfield until redshirt freshman Gabe Ervin recovers enough to re-enter the team’s crowded running-back rotation.