Going into the 2025 NFL Draft, running back is one of the hotter positions and loaded with top-end talent. Aside from the obvious star potential in Ashton Jeanty, there are several other names to keep tabs on in this class for the Chicago Bears.
A team like Chicago needs running back help, and could use a more powerful back like Iowa's Kaleb Johnson. The Ohio native comes into the league with some questioning whether his lack of speed or quickness will affect how he plays at the next level, but many also believe his stronger traits are what make him attractive, and that the negatives aren't as bad as some make them out to be.
Johnson appears ready to make his impact on the NFL in a big way after leading the Big Ten in rushing and rushing touchdowns in 2024. He isn't your flashy type like a Saquon Barkley or Jahmyr Gibbs. But, Johnson comes with a whole lot of power and plenty of yardage to boot, making him a candidate for healthy workload at the pro level.
Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson 2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Notes
- Height: 6-1
- Weight: 224
- Set school record for rushing TDs (21) and total TDs (23) in 2024
- Second-Team AP All-American in 2024
Positives
- Big, strong frame capable of shedding tacklers with ease at the second and third levels
- Above-average vision and patience, which he uses to his advantage. When picking a lane, it's almost always the right one.
- Very decisive and doesn't waste extra steps or movement; committed to his attack once he hits the gap
- Capable of handling bulk of carries
Negatives
- Accelerates slowly and relies on his constant leg churning to pick up extra yardage rather than sheer speed
- Isn't going to blow you away with athletic cuts or moves
- Not an ideal third down back due to limited experience catching the football and ineffectiveness as a pass blocker
Kaleb Johnson NFL Player Comparison: James Conner
Johnson is a physical runner, first and foremost. He's going to get that extra yard by falling forward as opposed to straight down. He isn't a prolific receiver, but did show the ability to catch the ball when called upon last season. If you cut about 7-10 pounds off James Conner, you're looking at Kaleb Johnson.
Kaleb Johnson 2025 NFL Draft Grade: Day 2 Pick
Whether it's the second or third round, Johnson will likely end up going in on Day 2. It depends on which position sees a run take place at some point in Round 2, and it very well could be at running back. That's the sweet spot for a good chunk of these prospects; late Round 2 or early Round 3.
He is an ideal short yardage or goal line back, but Johnson is out to prove he is much more than that. It doesn't matter how you want to spin it, his 6.4 yards per carry in 2024 speaks for itself -- and on 240 carries, too. He's ready. He'll hear his name called sooner rather than later.