In a loaded running back class, Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson has flown under the radar through much of the draft process. Johnson is a tough and consistent runner worthy of a closer look. Though his production in 2024 was overshadowed by fellow running back Ashton Jeanty, Johnson has been one of the best backs in college football over the last three seasons. This full Kaleb Johnson scouting report covers his strengths, weaknesses and projected impact in the NFL.
Overview, Film Analysis, and 2025 Scouting Report of Iowa Running Back Kaleb Johnson
Measurables
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 225 lbs
Player Background
Johnson was born and raised in Ohio. In high school, Johnson was a three-year letterman in football. As a senior, he earned first-team all-state honors. Johnson was rated as a three-star recruit coming out of high school, receiving offers from programs like California and Iowa State. He instead committed to play for the Iowa Hawkeyes, where his career would take off.
Johnson earned over 100 carries in each of his three seasons as a Hawkeye. In his senior year, he became the focal point of Iowa’s offense, with over 250 total touches. He rushed for 1,537 yards in 2024, which ranked fourth in the country. In addition to his massive yardage tally, Johnson scored 23 total touchdowns. Johnson was named a consensus first-team All-American, putting scouts and NFL fans on notice.
Strengths
With excellent patience and the ability to burst through a hole as soon as it opens up, Johnson’s game should translate smoothly to the next level. Johnson has elite vision as a ball carrier. He consistently accelerates into contact and always keeps his legs moving, leading to extra yards at the end of his carries. Johnson has above-average contact balance. He fights off arm tackles with ease and often bounces off of defenders. Due to his size and athleticism, Johnson is able to contribute on every down.
Iowa often used Johnson as a receiver out of the backfield, primarily on screen passes. His vision and ability to stay behind blockers make him dangerous as a screen option. According to PFF, Johnson averaged 11.9 yards after the catch on his 22 receptions this year, which ranked in the top ten among running backs with at least 20 targets.
Weaknesses
While Johnson’s ability to quickly burst through open holes often leads to long runs, he does not excel at making defenders miss in open space. He is often slow to change direction after reaching the second level of the defense. Johnson has room to improve in pass protection. As a receiver, his route tree is limited. His hands are fairly consistent, though he dropped two passes in 2024.
Potential Team Fits
NFL Projection
Johnson is an every-down workhorse back capable of handling 20 touches per game at the next level. While he lacks the elite athleticism to consistently produce explosive runs, his patience and contact balance give him a high floor in the NFL. For a running back-needy team, Johnson is an immediate answer. Johnson projects as an early second-round talent at this point in the draft process.
Main Photo Courtesy of Jeffrey Becker – Imagn Images
