Iowa's Loss: Kaleb Johnson To NFL Draft - What's Next?

Can a single decision reshape the trajectory of a promising athletic career? Kaleb Johnson, a name now etched in the annals of Iowa Hawkeyes football and poised to make waves in the NFL, has already made a pivotal choice that will define his immediate future.

As the Iowa Hawkeyes prepare for the Music City Bowl, the absence of star running back Kaleb Johnson looms large. Johnson, announcing on December 1st that he would forgo the bowl game to prepare for the NFL draft, leaves a significant void in the Hawkeyes' offensive arsenal. This decision, though seemingly straightforward, underscores the complex realities of college athletes balancing immediate commitments with long-term professional aspirations.

In his third season with the Iowa Hawkeyes, Kaleb Johnson rapidly ascended to prominence, establishing himself as one of the premier running backs in the Big Ten conference. His performances, characterized by a blend of power, agility, and an uncanny ability to find running lanes, showcased his readiness for the next level. Johnson's ability to thrive in a pro-style run scheme further solidified his status as a valuable asset for any NFL team.

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The path to the NFL draft is a rigorous one, and Johnson, along with other Iowa football players like Jay Higgins, Luke Lachey, Sebastian Castro, Jermari Harris, Yahya Black, and Connor Colby, took a significant step towards realizing their professional dreams by participating in the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. This event, a crucible for aspiring NFL players, provides a platform to showcase their physical attributes, skills, and potential to NFL scouts, coaches, and executives.

On Friday, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Kaleb Johnson's name was called during the third round of the 2025 NFL draft. The Pittsburgh Steelers selected the Iowa running back with the 83rd overall pick, marking the beginning of his professional career. The selection underscores the Steelers' belief in Johnson's potential to bolster their running back corps and contribute immediately.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' decision to draft Kaleb Johnson in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft represents a significant investment in his potential. Johnson, a powerful and versatile running back, brings a unique blend of skills to the team. He is a volume running back who thrives with a high number of touches.

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Beyond the statistics and accolades, Johnson possesses a rare quality that NFL scouts covet: his physical frame. He has the size and strength to absorb hits, break tackles, and maintain durability throughout a grueling season. His ability to endure contact and bounce off defenders, honed during his college career, makes him a valuable asset in the demanding world of professional football.

Johnson's journey to this point is a testament to his dedication and resilience. From his early days as a promising athlete to his breakout performances with the Iowa Hawkeyes, he has consistently demonstrated the qualities needed to succeed at the highest level of the sport. Now, with the Steelers, he has the opportunity to prove himself and carve out a lasting legacy in the NFL.

Kaleb Johnson's selection in the third round of the NFL draft is a significant step in his professional career. He will join a Pittsburgh Steelers team that is looking to strengthen its running game and has passed on other high-profile quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders in favor of his skills. His addition to the team provides the Steelers with a promising young talent.

The decision to forgo the Music City Bowl highlights the modern athlete's complex calculations. While loyalty to the team and the chance to compete are strong motivators, the potential risks of injury and the opportunity to focus solely on the NFL draft can outweigh those considerations. For Johnson, the benefits of dedicating his time to preparing for the draft, including rigorous training and interviews, seemed to outweigh the immediate gratification of playing in the bowl game.

The story of Kaleb Johnson also touches upon personal connections and the impact of family. In Iowa City, in the final moments of her life, Charlene Strader thought of Kaleb Johnson. This reflects the athlete's impact on the wider community and the human connections that often underpin athletic achievements.

Johnson's breakout college football season, where he showcased exceptional talent, solidified his place as a top prospect. His performance, combined with his physical attributes, has attracted the attention of NFL scouts.

Johnson's style of play is often compared to that of a volume running back, thriving on numerous touches and bringing a blend of power and agility to the game. While he may not possess the explosiveness of some NFL stars, his frame and ability to take hits make him a valuable asset.

His journey also includes the support and influence of his family, from his mother, an accountant, to his father, a former football coach. Growing up in Asheville, North Carolina, with both parents having backgrounds in music, further adds to the unique context of Johnson's background.

The scene in Iowa City, where he motioned to fans after scoring a touchdown, is a symbol of his impact on the Iowa Hawkeyes community. These moments, combined with his on-field performance, highlight his importance and his rising status as a football star.