As the NFL Draft approaches, Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson has solidified his position as one of the most intriguing prospects in the class. With a rare blend of physicality and speed, Johnson has proven to be a dominant force in college football, making a strong case for a first-round selection.
A Season to Remember
Kaleb Johnson, also known as KJ2, has been a revelation this season, ranking third in the nation in rushing yards with over 1,300 and tying for third among running backs with 20 rushing touchdowns. These numbers alone put him in elite company, but his impact on the field goes far beyond the stat sheet.
Johnson has been the backbone of Iowa’s offense, demonstrating his ability to take over games. With five performances of 135+ rushing yards and seven games exceeding the 100-yard mark, he’s shown consistency and dominance. Perhaps most impressively, Johnson has scored in every single game this season, cementing his reputation as a red-zone weapon.
A Nightmare for Defenders
Johnson’s game tape has workhorse written all over. His vision is one of his defining traits, as he maneuvers through lanes with precision and decisiveness. Rarely does he get caught hesitating in the backfield, a skill that allows him to maximize every carry. But it’s his contact balance that truly sets him apart. Johnson is a nightmare for defenders in open space, consistently breaking tackles and maintaining his footing through contact.
Whether he’s juking linebackers or running over safeties, KJ2’s ability to make defenders miss is second to none. Standing out as a red-zone specialist, Johnson has bulldozed his way through goal-line defenses all season long. His physical running style and knack for finding the end zone make him a reliable scoring option.
In tight spaces where the game often comes down to brute strength and determination, Johnson thrives. After being somewhat underutilized in his first two years, Iowa unleashed Johnson as a junior, and he’s more than lived up to the challenge. His durability and ability to handle a heavy workload have been evident throughout the season, proving that he’s more than capable of being a feature back at the next level.
With his combination of size, speed, vision, and physicality, Kaleb Johnson checks all the boxes for a first-round running back. While the NFL has seen a trend of devaluing the running back position in recent drafts, Johnson’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him an exception. I firmly believe Johnson’s best football is still ahead of him. His junior season was just the beginning, and the team that drafts him will be securing a cornerstone piece for their offense.