Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kaleb Johnson has made quite a name for himself in the college football landscape. With an impressive tally of 1,537 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns on 240 carries during the 2024 season, Johnson is now regarded as one of the top prospects heading into the upcoming NFL Draft. His performance has not only showcased his talent but has also sparked considerable interest among NFL teams looking to bolster their backfields.
Draft stock on the rise
Initially, it appeared that Ashton Jeanty would be the only running back projected to go in the first round of the draft. However, recent mock drafts have begun to highlight Johnson’s rising valuation. Some analysts are now projecting him as high as the 22nd overall pick, a significant leap that underscores his potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level. This surge in popularity is a testament to his skill set and the demand for dynamic running backs in the NFL.
Top 3 landing spots for Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson
As the draft approaches, many are speculating about where Johnson might land. Here are three potential landing spots that could be a perfect fit for the talented running back.
#3. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have been searching for a reliable running back to complement their offense. Despite bringing back Ezekiel Elliott, the former star has struggled to regain his form. Rico Dowdle emerged as their best runner, but he isn’t viewed as a long-term solution. This is where Kaleb Johnson could step in.
While the Cowboys often favor flashy names with their first-round picks, it wouldn’t be out of character for Jerry Jones to consider Johnson if Ashton Jeanty is off the board. If Johnson falls to the second round, he could provide a cost-effective solution to their backfield woes.
#2. Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears have a new head coach in Ben Johnson, who is known for his commitment to the running game. During his tenure as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, he helped develop a formidable rushing attack that ranked sixth in the nation, averaging 146.4 yards per game.
At the Bears, Johnson has D’Andre Swift at his disposal, but adding Kaleb Johnson could create a dynamic duo that would elevate their offense. With a solid running game, the Bears could become a more formidable contender in the NFC.
#1. Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers are another team that could greatly benefit from adding Kaleb Johnson to their roster. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has a well-known run-first mentality, and he has previously sought out running backs like JK Dobbins and Gus Edwards to bolster his ground game. However, Dobbins’ injury issues have left a gap in their offensive strategy.
Recent mock drafts suggest that the Chargers might be willing to use their 22nd overall pick to secure Johnson. This move would not only address their need for a reliable running back but also align with Harbaugh’s offensive philosophy.
Why Kaleb Johnson stands out
So, what makes Kaleb Johnson such an appealing prospect? For starters, his ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact is impressive. He has showcased agility and speed, making him a dual-threat on the field. Whether it’s running between the tackles or bouncing outside, Johnson has the versatility that NFL teams crave.
Moreover, his work ethic and dedication to improving his game have been widely praised. Coaches and teammates alike have noted his commitment to training and his willingness to learn, traits that will undoubtedly serve him well as he transitions to the professional level.
The impact of a strong running game
In today’s NFL, having a strong running game is crucial for success. Teams that can effectively run the ball not only control the clock but also take pressure off their quarterbacks. A dynamic running back like Kaleb Johnson can change the game, opening up play-action opportunities and creating mismatches in the passing game.
As the draft approaches, the buzz around Johnson continues to grow. His combination of speed, power, and football IQ makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to enhance their offensive capabilities.
In conclusion, Kaleb Johnson’s impressive college career has positioned him as a top prospect for the NFL Draft. With teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, and Los Angeles Chargers eyeing him as a potential addition, it will be exciting to see where he lands. As we gear up for the draft, one thing is clear: Kaleb Johnson is a name that college football fans—and NFL teams—will be watching closely.
