Iowa Running Back Gains Significant Momentum as NFL Draft Nears

In what was essentially a fairly dismal season for the Iowa Hawkeyes football program, one massive bright spot continues to shine through. With the NFL draft rapidly approaching, this year's star player for the Hawkeyes is continuing to make some serious moves when it comes to the next level of football.

Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kaleb Johnson is rapidly gaining attention from scouts and analysts. Once considered a mid-round prospect, Johnson's impressive 2024 season has propelled him into early-round discussions.

In 2024, Johnson showcased his talents by rushing for 1,537 yards and setting a school record with 21 rushing touchdowns. His performance not only led the Big Ten but also placed him among the nation's elite running backs. With His ability to gain significant yardage after contact (936 yards, seventh-most in the FBS), it bodes well for his draft stock and highlights his strength on the field.

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Climbing the Draft Boards

Johnson's combination of size (6-foot, 225 pounds), vision, and agility has caught the eye of NFL scouts. ESPN's Matt Miller ranks him as the number 40 overall prospect, noting his powerful downhill running style complemented by good short-area agility and a devastating stiff-arm.

Some mock drafts even project Johnson as a potential late first-round pick, with the Minnesota Vikings at Number 24 being a possible landing spot. Other teams that have been mentioned include the Pittsburg Steelers, LA Chargers, Denver Broncos, Dallas Cowboys, and even the Chicago Bears may be in the mix. A lot of teams also like Kaleb based on the fact that he was just a Junior at the time of his NFL draft declaration, meaning he has less miles on his body.

Adding to his pre-draft momentum, Johnson has been training alongside NFL veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. This collaboration not only provides Johnson with invaluable insights from a seasoned professional, but also signals his commitment to excel at the next level. It also adds a little more depth to the possibility that Pittsburg may be home to both players soon.

With the NFL Scouting Combine and pro days on the horizon, Johnson has prime opportunities to further elevate his draft stock. His impressive college career, combined with his physical attributes and recent high-profile training, positions him as a prospect to watch closely as the NFL draft approaches.

In a draft class rich with running back talent, Kaleb Johnson's blend of performance, potential, and preparation makes him a compelling candidate for teams seeking a dynamic addition to their backfield. If nothing else, Kaleb has some serious experience with putting a team on his back.