Emmett Johnson: High School, Draft Pick, Chiefs, Contract and Stats

Emmett Johnson has quickly become a name to watch after an outstanding Nebraska career and his selection by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2026 NFL Draft. The rookie running back entered the NFL after producing 1,451 rushing yards and 15 total touchdowns in his final college season.

Emmett Johnson High School, Draft Pick, Chiefs, Contract and Stats

Emmett Johnson is one of the newest members of the Kansas City Chiefs and a rookie running back whose journey from Minnesota high school football to Nebraska stardom has attracted growing attention. After an exceptional 2025 season with the Cornhuskers, Johnson entered the 2026 NFL Draft and was selected by Kansas City in the fifth round.

His college production, versatility as a receiver and ability to contribute in different phases of the offense made him an intriguing Day 3 pick. Here is a closer look at Emmett Johnson’s high school career, draft pick, Chiefs role, contract and statistics.

Emmett Johnson High School Career

Before becoming a standout at Nebraska, Emmett Johnson played high school football at the Academy of Holy Angels in Richfield, Minnesota. He emerged as one of the state’s top recruits and established himself as a dynamic two-way player.

Johnson’s senior season was especially remarkable. He rushed for more than 2,500 yards and scored 42 touchdowns, while recording at least 100 rushing yards in all 11 games. He also played safety and contributed significantly on defense.

His accomplishments earned him the Minnesota Mr. Football award in 2021. Over his prep career, Johnson accumulated nearly 5,000 rushing yards and close to 6,000 all-purpose yards. He was also a three-star prospect and one of Minnesota’s highest-rated high school players before committing to Nebraska.

Johnson’s high school success showed the versatility that would later become an important part of his college career. He could run between the tackles, catch passes and contribute on defense.

Emmett Johnson’s Nebraska Career

Johnson joined the Nebraska Cornhuskers and gradually developed into one of the most productive running backs in college football.

He redshirted in 2022 before beginning to earn a larger offensive role. His production increased over the next two seasons, but 2025 was his true breakout year.

Emmett Johnson’s College Stats

Johnson’s final season at Nebraska was outstanding. He rushed for 1,451 yards on 251 carries, averaging 5.8 yards per attempt, while scoring 12 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 46 passes for 370 yards and three touchdowns.

His 2025 performance helped him earn Big Ten Running Back of the Year honors and multiple All-America recognitions. He finished among the national leaders in rushing and all-purpose production.

What Draft Pick Was Emmett Johnson?

Emmett Johnson was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Chiefs chose him with the 161st overall pick, making him Nebraska’s first player selected in the 2026 draft.

Johnson’s selection continued Nebraska’s long history of producing NFL running backs. His combination of vision, quickness and receiving ability gave Kansas City another young option in its backfield.

NFL.com’s scouting analysis described Johnson as a decisive, downhill runner who can also contribute as a pass-catcher.

Emmett Johnson and the Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs drafted Johnson to add youth and depth to their running back group. Kansas City’s official roster lists him as a rookie running back wearing No. 10.

Johnson impressed during the offseason and preseason, and reports entering the regular season indicated that he had earned a meaningful place in the Chiefs’ running back rotation.

His skill set could be particularly valuable because he is not limited to traditional rushing duties. At Nebraska, Johnson demonstrated that he could be effective as a receiver, catching 46 passes during his final college season.

That versatility gives the Chiefs another option when creating different personnel packages.

Emmett Johnson Contract

As a fifth-round selection, Johnson signed his rookie contract with Kansas City after the 2026 NFL Draft.

According to Over The Cap, his reported rookie deal is valued at approximately $4.87 million, with an average annual value of about $1.22 million. The contract includes approximately $485,636 in fully guaranteed money.

His reported 2026 salary-cap charge is approximately $1.01 million. As with all NFL contracts, the financial details can change because of roster bonuses, incentives or future transactions.

Emmett Johnson Stats: Latest Update

Johnson is entering his rookie NFL season in 2026, so his professional career statistics are only beginning to develop. The Chiefs’ official player page currently lists him as a rookie and provides his game and career statistics as the season progresses.

One of his notable early highlights came during the preseason, when he scored a rushing touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

His college statistics remain an important indicator of why Kansas City selected him:

• 2,460 career rushing yards
• 15 career rushing touchdowns
• 92 receptions
• 702 receiving yards
• 5 receiving touchdowns
• 3,162 career yards from scrimmage

His ability to produce both on the ground and through the air could help him compete for touches in the Chiefs offense.

What Makes Emmett Johnson an Interesting Rookie?

Johnson does not rely on just one aspect of his game. His college career showed that he can contribute as a runner and receiver, while his high school background also reflects his experience as a two-way player.

His biggest strengths include:

Vision and patience

Johnson showed strong instincts when finding running lanes at Nebraska. His ability to identify openings was a major part of his success.

Receiving ability

With 92 career receptions at Nebraska, Johnson proved that he can be more than a traditional early-down running back.

Proven production

His 1,451-yard rushing season in 2025 was one of the best by a Nebraska running back in recent years.

Opportunity with the Chiefs

As a rookie, Johnson’s immediate role may continue to evolve. However, his versatility gives him multiple ways to contribute to Kansas City’s offense.

Conclusion

Emmett Johnson’s rise from the Academy of Holy Angels to Nebraska and eventually the Kansas City Chiefs has been built on consistent production. He dominated Minnesota high school football, developed into a Big Ten star and became the 161st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Now beginning his NFL career, Johnson will look to turn his college success into professional production. His rushing ability, receiving skills and competitive style make him an interesting young player to follow as his role with the Chiefs develops.

FAQs

Where did Emmett Johnson go to high school?

Emmett Johnson attended the Academy of Holy Angels in Minnesota, where he won Minnesota Mr. Football in 2021.

What draft pick was Emmett Johnson?

The Kansas City Chiefs selected Emmett Johnson in the fifth round, 161st overall, of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Is Emmett Johnson on the Chiefs?

Yes. Emmett Johnson is a rookie running back for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2026.

What is Emmett Johnson’s contract?

His reported rookie contract is worth approximately $4.87 million, according to Over The Cap.

What were Emmett Johnson’s Nebraska stats?

He finished his Nebraska career with 2,460 rushing yards, 15 rushing touchdowns, 92 receptions, 702 receiving yards and five receiving touchdowns.