Kaleb Johnson

Kaleb Johnson, Iowa, RB, 6010, 224, Jr.

Draft Profile

Frankly: (To Be Added)

Overview

Johnson is a power back prototype who projects as an immediate impact player in gap/power rushing schemes. His pro-ready frame, combined with one-cut explosiveness and forward-running violence, makes him a feature back candidate from day one. Johnson’s tape reveals a back who gets stronger as games progress, wearing defenses down and consistently creating chunk plays even against stacked boxes. His 2024 performances against Minnesota and Maryland showcased his ability to dominate games with patience, vision, and relentless effort. While his top-end speed is solid but not elite, his contact balance and natural forward lean allow him to turn small gains into meaningful chunks, an essential trait for controlling the line of scrimmage and maintaining offensive rhythm. Teams looking for a workhorse back with proven production will find Johnson a safe Day 2 pick, ready to be an RB1 from the outset.

Background

Johnson’s path from Hamilton High School to record-breaking collegiate rusher at Iowa epitomizes the traditional Big Ten power back development arc. The former three-star recruit quickly made his presence felt as a freshman, breaking Iowa’s freshman rushing record with 779 yards in 2022. His ascension peaked in 2024, when he delivered 1,537 rushing yards and shattered school records with 23 total touchdowns and 21 rushing scores. Johnson’s physical dominance was evident in eight 100-yard games that season, including standout performances like a 206-yard explosion against Minnesota. His 6.4 yards per carry led the Big Ten while ranking seventh nationally, underscoring his effectiveness as both a workhorse and home-run hitter. With 2,779 career rushing yards, Johnson leaves Iowa as one of the program’s most prolific and durable backs, earning first-team All-America honors in his final season.

Scouting Report

Pros: Johnson showcases exceptional tempo control, pressing holes with patience before exploding through running lanes with decisive cuts. His plant-and-go ability is remarkable for a back his size, highlighted by several big plays against Minnesota, including a 40-yard touchdown. His natural pad level and forward lean turn minimal gains into meaningful chunks, consistently falling forward against contact. Johnson’s vision allows him to manipulate defenders, setting up blocks at the second level and navigating traffic with precision. His controlled violence as a runner breaks arm tackles with ease while maintaining balance through congestion. Despite stacked boxes, his burst through the hole resulted in 21 runs of 20+ yards in 2024. Johnson also offers reliable hands in the passing game, as evidenced by his 72-yard catch-and-run against Nebraska. Battle-tested and durable, he excels late in games, averaging 5.8 yards per carry in fourth quarters during his final season.

 

Cons: Johnson’s top-end speed is solid but not game-changing, as he was caught from behind on several potential breakaway runs. His pass protection needs refinement, as he tends to lead with his shoulder rather than establishing a solid base and punch technique. Creativity behind the line is limited, as Johnson lacks lateral agility to consistently create opportunities when initial lanes are disrupted. His route tree primarily consists of swings and checkdowns, suggesting room for growth as a receiver. At times, Johnson narrows his running base through the hole, reducing his ability to make quick lateral adjustments when faced with penetration.

2022

rushing
YPC	TD	YDS	CAR	LONG
5.2	6.0	779.0	151.0	75.0

receiving
REC	YPR	TD	LONG	YDS
4.0	6.8	0.0	14.0	27.0

fumbles
REC	LOST	FUM
0.0	1.0	1.0

kickReturns
LONG	YDS	NO	TD	AVG
42.0	325.0	13.0	0.0	25.0