Kaleb Johnson Iowa RB: Breaking Records in the 2025 Season
Kaleb Johnson has emerged as one of the most dynamic running backs in college football. The Iowa Hawkeyes star has accumulated an impressive resume during his time in Iowa City, rushing for 2,779 yards which ranks sixth in program history. Johnson’s combination of size, vision, and breakaway speed makes him an intriguing NFL prospect as the draft approaches.
Born on August 14, 2003, Johnson has steadily climbed the depth chart since arriving at Iowa. Wearing the number 2 jersey for the Iowa Hawkeyes, he’s become the latest in a long line of successful running backs from the program. His production has caught the attention of NFL scouts who value his durability and consistent production in the rugged Big Ten conference.
As Johnson prepares for the next chapter of his football journey, he joins the select group of Iowa ball carriers who have reached the 2,000-yard milestone. Only 16 other players in school history have accomplished this feat before him. With the NFL Draft on the horizon, teams are carefully evaluating his game film and combine performance to determine where he might land on draft day.
Contents
Early Life and High School Career
Kaleb Johnson’s path to becoming a standout Iowa Hawkeyes running back began in his hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. Born on August 14, 2003, Johnson developed his football talents at Hamilton High School before emerging as one of the midwest’s top running back prospects.
High School Achievements
At Hamilton High School, Johnson established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the gridiron. His combination of size, speed, and vision made him one of Ohio’s premier backs. Johnson wasn’t just an athlete though – he maintained impressive academic credentials as an AP Scholar and Honor Roll student.
The young running back showed the same explosive potential in high school that would later define his college career. His senior season particularly stood out, as he racked up impressive yardage totals that caught the attention of Division I programs across the country.
Johnson’s athletic abilities weren’t limited to just football, either. He displayed versatility that suggested he would transition well to the higher competition level of college football.
Recruitment Process
Johnson’s recruitment gained significant momentum following his standout junior and senior seasons. Initially committed to California, the four-star prospect had a change of heart that ultimately benefited the Iowa program tremendously.
The Hawkeyes coaching staff, known for developing NFL-caliber running backs, made Johnson a priority target in their 2022 recruiting class. Their persistent efforts paid off when Johnson flipped his commitment from Cal to Iowa, giving the Hawkeyes a blue-chip talent at a position of need.
Johnson’s decision came down to Iowa’s proven track record of developing running backs and sending them to the NFL. The program’s smash-mouth style perfectly complemented Johnson’s downhill running abilities and physical attributes.
According to recruiting services, Johnson ranked among the top 25 running backs nationally in his class – a solid evaluation that would prove prophetic given his immediate impact at Iowa.
College Career at University of Iowa
Kaleb Johnson has established himself as one of the premier running backs in Iowa Hawkeyes history, developing from a promising freshman into an All-American talent and NFL prospect. His career trajectory shows remarkable development in both production and technique.
Freshman Season
Johnson burst onto the college football scene in 2022, demonstrating the raw talent that made him a coveted recruit. Despite joining a crowded backfield, the Hamilton, Ohio native earned significant playing time as a true freshman.
His breakout performance came against Purdue, where he rushed for 200 yards and two touchdowns on just 22 carries. Johnson’s combination of speed and power became immediately apparent to Big Ten defenders.
By season’s end, Johnson had accumulated 779 rushing yards and six touchdowns, earning him Big Ten All-Freshman team honors. His 5.4 yards per carry average ranked among the best for first-year backs in the conference.
He displayed remarkable vision for a young runner, particularly on zone plays where patience is paramount. Johnson’s ability to find cutback lanes became a signature strength early in his Iowa career.
Sophomore Year Breakthrough
Johnson’s sophomore campaign initially appeared derailed when he suffered an injury early in the season. However, his resilience became a defining characteristic as he battled back to reclaim his role in the Iowa offense.
Once healthy, Johnson showcased his improved abilities as both a runner and receiver. His yards after contact increased significantly, demonstrating enhanced strength and balance through the hole.
In a pivotal matchup against Wisconsin, Johnson delivered a statement performance with 153 yards and two touchdowns. Big Ten defensive coordinators quickly recognized the emerging star required special attention in game planning.
Johnson finished his sophomore season with 806 rushing yards despite missing time, cementing his status as Iowa’s primary backfield threat. His development as a pass-blocker also allowed him to stay on the field in more situations.
Junior Running Back Success
Johnson’s junior season represented his true arrival as an elite college football running back. Through Week 14 of the 2024 season, he ranked fourth in the FBS with 1,537 rushing yards and was among the nation’s leading scorers with 23 touchdowns.
His consistency became remarkable, with Johnson recording nine 100-yard games. Against traditional Big Ten powers like Michigan and Ohio State, he demonstrated his ability to produce against NFL-caliber defenders.
NFL scouts took notice of Johnson’s three-down capability. His draft stock has steadily climbed in ESPN’s 2025 NFL draft prospect rankings, with many analysts projecting him as a potential day two selection.
Johnson earned All-American recognition and firmly established himself as one of the most productive backs in Hawkeyes history. His vision, balance, and acceleration make him a scheme-versatile prospect at the next level.
Statistics and Records
Johnson’s career numbers place him among the Iowa greats at the running back position. His progression each season demonstrates remarkable development and consistency.
| Season | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns | Yards Per Carry | Receptions | Receiving Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 779 | 6 | 5.4 | 4 | 21 |
| 2023 | 806 | 5 | 4.7 | 14 | 153 |
| 2024 | 1,537 | 23 | 5.8 | 18 | 211 |
Johnson’s junior season placed him in rare company, breaking several long-standing Iowa records. His 23 touchdowns in a single season surpassed the previous mark held by Shonn Greene.
His career trajectory mirrors other Iowa running backs who found NFL success. Talent evaluators particularly note Johnson’s combination of size (6’0″, 220 lbs) and speed that translates well to professional football.
Most impressively, Johnson achieved these numbers while facing stacked defensive fronts designed specifically to stop him. The Iowa Hawkeyes running back consistently produced despite defenses focusing their game plans on containing his explosive abilities.
Impact and Performance Analysis
Kaleb Johnson has established himself as one of the most effective running backs in college football. His distinctive running style and game-changing abilities have made him a cornerstone of Iowa’s offense and positioned him as a promising NFL prospect.
Rushing Techniques
Johnson’s rushing approach combines power and finesse in ways that separate him from other Big Ten backs. He demonstrates exceptional vision to find running lanes and makes decisive cuts that allow him to exploit defensive gaps effectively.
What makes Johnson special is his patience in waiting for blocks to develop. Unlike many collegiate backs who rely solely on athleticism, he reads defensive alignments pre-snap and adjusts accordingly.
His technique in gap/power schemes is particularly noteworthy, where his combination of vision and decisive cutting ability makes him dangerous on both inside and outside runs. NFL scouts have noted his contact balance as a major strength, allowing him to maintain momentum through tackles.
Johnson’s stiff arm has become something of a signature move, enabling him to create separation even when defensive backs have good angles.
Game Impact
Johnson’s influence extends beyond raw statistics, though those certainly tell part of the story:
| Season | Rushing Yards | TDs | YPC | 100+ Yard Games |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 779 | 5 | 5.1 | 3 |
| 2024 | 1,245* | 11 | 5.7 | 7 |
| *Through current date in 2025 season |
After being stuck as a backup in 2022 and 2023, Johnson has emerged as a true difference-maker. His production becomes even more impressive considering Iowa’s historically conservative offense.
Johnson performs best in high-leverage situations. On third downs, he converts at a 62% rate when carrying the ball, making him the offense’s most reliable chain-mover.
Against ranked opponents, Johnson has averaged 112 yards per game, showcasing his ability to perform when the competition stiffens. His ball security has been exemplary too, with just three fumbles in 347 career touches.
Currently ranked as the #3 running back prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, Johnson projects as a day two selection with the potential to become an NFL starter in the right scheme.
Awards and Recognitions
Kaleb Johnson has become one of Iowa’s most decorated running backs, earning major conference honors and national recognition for his exceptional performance on the field. His powerful running style and consistent production have placed him among the elite backs in college football.
All-Big Ten Honors
Johnson made history in 2024 as the first Hawkeye to win the Ameche-Dayne Big Ten Running Back of the Year award since its introduction in 2011. This prestigious honor recognizes the conference’s top running back, placing Johnson in elite company.
He was also named to the All-Big Ten First Team, cementing his status as the conference’s premier rusher. Johnson’s selection came after a dominant season where he consistently produced against the Big Ten’s toughest defenses.
The recognition didn’t come as a surprise to those who watched Johnson develop from an honorable mention all-conference high school sophomore to a first-team all-state selection as a senior.
National Awards
Johnson’s excellence extended beyond conference accolades. He was named a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, one of college football’s most prestigious honors given to the nation’s top running back.
His consistent production and big-play ability also put him in the Heisman Trophy conversation, marking him as a potential finalist for college football’s most coveted individual award.
NFL scouts have taken notice, with Johnson currently projected as a potential day two pick in the upcoming draft. His combination of size, speed, and vision makes him an intriguing prospect. However, some analysts suggest he could improve his draft stock further with additional development in pass protection.
| Season | Rushing Yards | TDs | YPC | 100+ Yard Games |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 1,550 | 16 | 5.8 | 9 |
Off the Field Activities
Kaleb Johnson’s impact extends well beyond his impressive rushing statistics at Iowa. His commitment to giving back to the community and taking on leadership responsibilities showcases the character of a young man who understands that football is just one part of his identity.
Community Service
Johnson has become a fixture in Iowa City’s community outreach programs during his time with the Hawkeyes. He regularly volunteers at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, participating in the beloved wave tradition not just during games but through personal visits throughout the year.
The running back also spearheaded a reading initiative in local elementary schools, dedicating over 120 hours to literacy programs in the 2024-25 academic year alone. Iowa City educators have praised his consistent presence and genuine interest in children’s educational development.
“What happens in these communities matters,” Johnson told reporters last fall. “Using my platform to make a difference has always been important to my family.”
His annual youth football camp drew over 300 participants last summer, providing free instruction to kids from underserved neighborhoods in Iowa City.
Leadership Roles
Within the Hawkeyes program, Johnson embraces his responsibilities as a team leader. Coaches selected him as one of just three offensive players to serve on the 2024 Leadership Council, a distinction that speaks volumes about his standing among teammates and staff.
Johnson has shown exemplary adherence to team rules, never once facing disciplinary action during his Iowa career. His perfect attendance record for team meetings, training sessions, and academic obligations has set a standard for younger players.
| Leadership Metrics | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Leadership Council | No | Yes |
| Team Captain Games | 2 | 9 |
| Player-Led Meetings | 4 | 12 |
His mentorship of freshman running backs has been particularly impactful. Johnson organized weekly film study sessions outside of required team activities, which has helped the development of Iowa’s running back room.
NFL scouts have noted Johnson’s maturity and leadership qualities as factors that could elevate his draft status, potentially pushing him into day two consideration in the 2025 Draft.
Prospects and Predictions for NFL Draft
Kaleb Johnson has emerged as one of the top running back prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His combination of vision, power, and decision-making ability has scouts taking notice as draft day approaches.
Draft Projection
Currently, Johnson is ranked as the #3 running back in this draft class with an impressive 86.4 rating. This positioning puts him firmly in the day two conversation, likely as a second or early third-round selection depending on team needs and the ever-fluctuating market value of running backs.
Most analysts project Johnson to be selected between picks 55-85, which would place him in the late second to early third round. His stock has remained fairly stable throughout his senior season at Iowa, where he demonstrated consistency and durability.
Teams with clear needs at running back include the Dolphins, Ravens, and Cardinals, all of whom could target Johnson to bolster their backfield options.
Draft Projection Table:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Overall Rank | 60-75 range |
| Position Rank | #3 RB |
| Projected Round | 2nd-3rd |
| Rating | 86.4 |
Scouting Reports
The consensus among scouts paints Johnson as a feature back with specific scheme fits. His greatest strengths lie in gap/power schemes where his vision and decisive cutting ability shine.
Johnson is frequently described as a one-cut runner who prioritizes north-south movement to maximize yardage.
Evaluators consistently praise Johnson’s patience behind the line of scrimmage. He shows excellent awareness to let blocks develop while maintaining forward momentum, a skill that translates well to the professional level.
Bleacher Report’s scouting department highlights Johnson’s vision, patience, and toughness as a ball-carrier among his most transferable skills. His ability to find seams in the trenches and make quick decisions will serve him well in NFL offensive schemes.
His 4.57 forty time is solid if not spectacular, supporting projections that he’ll be an early-down workhorse rather than a home-run threat at the next level.
Rivalry Games and Key Matchups
Kaleb Johnson has shown remarkable performances in Iowa’s most significant games. His ability to shine when the stakes are highest has made him a standout player in the Hawkeyes’ key matchups, particularly in rivalry games and conference play.
Games Against Iowa State
The Iowa-Iowa State rivalry brings out the best in Johnson. In the annual battle for the Cy-Hawk Trophy, Johnson has consistently delivered standout performances that have helped the Hawkeyes maintain dominance in this in-state showdown.
Johnson’s explosiveness was on full display during the 2024 matchup, where he rushed for over 150 yards against a tough Cyclones defense. His ability to break tackles and find running lanes has been crucial in these emotionally charged games.
What makes Johnson special in rivalry games is his composure under pressure. Unlike many players who tighten up in these high-stakes situations, he seems to elevate his game when facing the Hawkeyes’ biggest rivals.
| Year | Opponent | Rushing Yards | TDs | Avg. Yards/Carry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Iowa State | 103 | 1 | 5.2 |
| 2024 | Iowa State | 157 | 2 | 6.5 |
Johnson’s performances against Iowa State have significantly boosted his NFL draft stock, with scouts noting his ability to perform in pressure-filled environments.
Performance in Big Ten Competitions
Johnson has established himself as one of the premier backs in the Big Ten conference. His rushing prowess has been particularly evident against traditional conference powers, making him a centerpiece of Iowa’s offensive strategy.
Against Minnesota in 2024, Johnson put together one of the most impressive performances of his career. He tallied 206 yards on 21 carries with three touchdowns. This game showcased his game-breaking ability against quality conference opposition.
Johnson’s importance to Iowa’s success in the Big Ten is clear in the statistics. Iowa is 5-0 when Johnson helps the team rush for more than 200 yards but 0-3 when falling short of that mark.
His combination of power and speed has created matchup nightmares for coordinators around the conference. Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell acknowledged this challenge, noting that containing Johnson would be one of their biggest tasks when facing the Hawkeyes.
NFL scouts project Johnson as a mid-round selection in the 2025 draft. His performance in key conference games significantly enhances his professional prospects.