Who Is Amar Johnson? Meet The Green Bay Packers Rookie Fighting For A Roster Spot
The Green Bay Packers didn’t have much to cheer for in the first preseason game against the New York Jets. However, there is one player everyone is talking about: Amar Johnson.
With an electric touchdown run that sparked some life in an otherwise forgettable performance, the undrafted rookie has fans asking the question, “Who is Amar Johnson?” Here’s everything you need to know—his college background, his standout moments against the Jets, and whether he has a realistic shot to secure a spot on the Packers’ 53-man roster.
Amar Johnson’s College Career
Before donning the Packers’ No. 46 jersey, Amar Johnson carved out an impressive collegiate career at South Dakota State. Playing for the Jackrabbits, a powerhouse at the FCS level, Johnson racked up 3,196 rushing yards and 38 touchdowns over the course of 59 games. He was the definition of reliability and efficiency, averaging nearly 6 yards per carry across his collegiate career.
Johnson’s accolades include back-to-back first-team All-Missouri Valley Conference honors in his junior and senior seasons, where his blend of vision, burst, and toughness propelled South Dakota State deep into the playoffs year after year.
Despite his production and draftable athleticism—highlighted by a 4.46-second 40-yard dash at his pro day—Johnson didn’t hear his name called during the 2025 NFL Draft. Instead, he signed with the Packers as one of their 10 undrafted free agents, and so far, he’s showing why he deserved a shot at the next level.
A Breakout Moment Against the Jets
The Packers’ preseason opener at Lambeau Field wasn’t exactly a highlight reel for the team, with Green Bay falling 30-10 to the New York Jets. However, the fourth quarter produced perhaps the most memorable moment of the game, thanks to Amar Johnson.
Trailing 27-3 with just over 12 minutes left, Johnson took a handoff from quarterback Sean Clifford, burst up the middle, bounced off a would-be tackler, and sprinted 39 yards untouched toward the left pylon. His celebratory Lambeau Leap afterward secured him both a highlight and the endearing approval of Packers fans.
Johnson finished the game with a stat line that turned plenty of heads—7 carries for 67 yards and that lone score, giving him an impressive 9.6 yards per carry. But it wasn’t just the numbers that stood out—it was the way he ran. His decisiveness in hitting the hole, coupled with a smooth change of speed, showcased skills that could translate well in the NFL.
Where Johnson Fits Into the Green Bay Packers’ Depth Chart
Opportunity Amid Injuries
Johnson’s timing couldn’t be better when it comes to making strong preseason impressions. The Packers’ running back depth chart is currently in flux, with injuries keeping backup options Emanuel Wilson and MarShawn Lloyd sidelined in camp.
These absences have opened the door for Johnson to take reps and prove his worth not only as a capable runner but also as a versatile depth piece. Third-year pro Israel Abanikanda and 2024 practice squad member Chris Brooks are also in the mix, further intensifying the developmental battle for backup roles behind Josh Jacobs.
What Johnson Brings
What separates Johnson from other systems backs competing for roster spots is his big-play potential paired with a hard-nosed work ethic. At 5-foot-10 and 205 pounds, Johnson has the size to run between the tackles, but his acceleration also makes him a threat to bounce runs outside and create chunk plays.
Additionally, his success at South Dakota State suggests he’s a fast learner who can handle different roles and responsibilities, whether as an outside zone runner or in short-yardage situations. If Johnson continues to show improvement, he could leave the coaches no choice but to include him.
Does He Have a Shot to Make the Team?
While making the Packers’ 53-man roster is no easy task, Johnson’s performance against the Jets positions him as a legitimate contender. Green Bay general manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur have historically valued undrafted rookies who make noise in camp, and Johnson has certainly done that.
Factors that could work in his favor include his ability to step into the backup running back role while others recover and his potential contributions on special teams. Players battling for back-of-the-roster spots need to wear multiple hats to stick, and Johnson’s athleticism gives him a chance to carve out a role as a gunner or return-unit piece.
If Green Bay ultimately decides to go in another direction, Johnson could still be a candidate for the practice squad, where he’d stay within the organization and be just one injury away from another opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Amar Johnson may have entered the night as an unknown, but his 39-yard touchdown and strong all-around performance against the Jets have catapulted him into the preseason spotlight. While his path to earning a roster spot is far from guaranteed, moments like these give players like Johnson a platform to showcase their talent.
For Packers fans, he’s a name worth rooting for—a hardworking rookie fighting for his NFL dream in the most endearing way possible. And if the Lambeau Leap is any indication, this won’t be the last time Amar Johnson gives Green Bay something to cheer about.
