Kaleb Johnson RB Iowa: Scouting Report

Height: 6’0

Weight: 225

Overall

Kaleb Johnson is a smooth, north/south runner in Iowa’s pro-style offense. In his 3 years with the Hawkeyes he played in 35 games, starting 22 of them. After missing multiple games due to injury in 2023, he had dominant production this past season and made a lot of big plays on film. He has the size, speed, and playmaking ability to be an immediate impact player in the NFL.

Run Game

Johnson has experience playing from both the shotgun and in the I formation. At the handoff he has good vision to find the open running lanes along with the patience to follow his blockers on power runs. When he has an opening he has elite acceleration and burst to get to the second level of the defense and he runs at full speed at all times. He has good size and showed the contact balance to stay on his feet after contact. He is sufficient at breaking arm tackles and he shows the ability to drive his legs and gain extra yardage when stood up by defenders but he thrives on his speed much more than his power. On film, he was often taken off the field for short yardage and goal to go plays, but when he was out there he showed no issues getting the yardage needed on each play.

Pass Game

Johnson was not used often as a receiver during his college career but on film he showed very good hands to make difficult catches out of the backfield and with his speed he can be a very reliable outlet receiver in the pros. In pass protection, he has the size and physicality to make blocks but he will need to improve his awareness on blitz pickups before he can be a strong blocker moving forward.

Last Word

Johnson is a very good back who can excel in both a zone and power run scheme. He has the speed and vision to find the open running lanes in zone as well as the patience to follow his blocks in power. While he does not have a lot of experience as a receiver and pass protector, he has the intangibles to develop into an every down back.

One-Liner: Kaleb Johnson has elite acceleration and burst, and he will be an immediate playmaker in the NFL.

Grade: 6.7 (Solid Starter on All 3 Downs)

Games Watched: 2024 - Minnesota, Ohio State, Iowa State

Team Fits: Los Angeles Chargers, Minnesota Vikings, San Francisco 49ers