Andy Reid Praises Rookie Emmett Johnson, Draws LeSean McCoy Comparison

At the Chiefs’ rookie minicamp (May 1-3), head coach Andy Reid highlighted fifth-round pick Emmett Johnson. Reid praised Johnson’s feel for the game, his smart approach, and his lateral quickness, noting his ability to shift gears, protect in pass-blocking, catch passes, and contribute on special teams. Reid said such versatility could put pressure on the defense.

NBC SportsEmmett Johnson hype grows after Andy Reid drops bold rookie praiseAndy Reid sees LeSean McCoy in Emmett Johnson

Kansas City entered the 2026 NFL Draft focused on defense but used a trade-up to select Johnson in the fifth round, the only offensive addition besides wide receiver Cyrus Allen. The team also added Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker this offseason, forming a backfield that now includes Walker, Brashard Smith, Emari Demercado, and Johnson.

Andy Reid’s Comparison for Chiefs RB Emmett Johnson Adds Extra Pressure for Rookie

At Nebraska, Johnson led the Big Ten in 2025-26 with 1,451 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns. He added 46 receptions for 370 receiving yards and three receiving scores, earning first-team All-American honors and the 2025 Big Ten Running Back of the Year award. His senior season set career highs in rushing yards, receptions, receiving yards, and total touchdowns (15).

Andy Reid’s Comparison for Chiefs RB Emmett Johnson Adds Extra Pressure for Rookie

Reid emphasized that Johnson’s skill set—catching, blocking, and running—matches the Chiefs’ preference for multi-dimensional backs. He indicated the team will use Johnson wherever he can contribute, including on special teams. Special-teams coordinator Dave Toub has already placed Johnson in the up-back role on punt formations, trusting his ability to make on-field calls. Johnson said he is willing to do whatever the team needs to win and highlighted his eagerness for special-teams opportunities. Reid also drew a direct parallel to former player LeSean McCoy, a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion who briefly played for Kansas City in 2019.

Andy Reid sees LeSean McCoy in Emmett Johnson

Observers caution that comparing a rookie to a future Hall-of-Fame candidate such as McCoy can raise expectations and add pressure. If Johnson’s on-field performance falls short of the benchmark, the comparison could become a source of scrutiny throughout his rookie season.

Andy Reid’s Comparison for Chiefs RB Emmett Johnson Adds Extra Pressure for Rookie

• “He’s got a good feel for things,” — Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs

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• “Smart kid. Good kid. He's got that lateral quickness. I mean, we had LeSean McCoy here for a bit, and [Johnson's] got a little bit of [McCoy] to him, where he can shift gears and still get himself upfield quickly. I like the way he pass-protected. I like the way he catches the football. The catching part, he does easy.” — Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs

Chiefs fans will love Andy Reid’s comparison for Emmett Johnson

• “I told Coach I'm willing to do whatever it takes for the team to win. I'm just looking forward to any opportunity I get on special teams.” — Emmett Johnson, Rookie Running Back, Kansas City Chiefs

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