Discover the Top Reasons to Love Third-Round Running Back Kaleb Johnson

HOMETOWN HERO: Johnson, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 224 pounds, hails from Hamilton, Ohio. He showcased his athletic talent in high school by excelling in football, basketball, and track. Now at 21, he’s ready to make his mark in the NFL after a solid college career at Iowa.

STELLAR COLLEGE PERFORMANCE: Johnson had a breakout season in 2024, racking up 1,537 rushing yards on 240 attempts, averaging an impressive 6.4 yards per carry. He crossed the end zone 21 times on the ground, totaling 23 touchdowns. His efforts earned him the title of Big Ten Running Back of the Year and a spot on the Second-Team All-America list by the Associated Press.

His playstyle features one-cut agility and a straightforward running approach. Despite facing tough defenses—especially in a passing game that faltered—Johnson made a significant impact. He scored 21 of Iowa’s 30 rushing touchdowns, showing his ability to shine even when defenses focused on him.

According to NFL draft analyst Dane Brugler from The Athletic, Johnson ranked as the No. 3 running back and the No. 44 overall prospect. He fell behind only Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton among running backs, but surpassed athletes like Treveyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, who were drafted before him.

Brugler pointed out that Iowa utilized multiple-tight end sets on 62.5% of their offensive plays—ranking second in FBS—and often faced stacked defenses due to a weak passing game. Still, Johnson thrived, proving his adaptability.

NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah praised Johnson for his awareness in pass protection and his reliable catching skills. “He adds value to the passing game in multiple ways,” Jeremiah noted.

EVALUATING HIS PLAY: Analysts describe Johnson not as an elusive athlete, but as a patient, powerful runner who uses run angles effectively. His style has drawn comparisons to DeMarco Murray, showcasing his potential in a zone-based NFL offense.

Recent studies show that running backs who excel in pass protection often see more playing time, highlighting Johnson’s versatility. His adeptness in both rushing and receiving could set him apart in the professional league and open doors for a successful career.