Star RB Kaleb Johnson declares for the 2025 NFL Draft

IOWA CITY – Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, the junior announced Sunday.

Johnson still had college eligibility, but forgoed it to pursue a professional future.

Johnson shared a long, heartfelt message on social media.

“Dear Hawkeye Nation,

“As I write this letter, my heart is filled with gratitude and appreciation for the incredible journey I have experienced as a member of the Iowa Hawkeyes. It was an honor to wear the black and gold and represent this program, this university and this community that means so much to me.

“To the fans: Thank you for your unwavering support, week after week. Whether under the bright lights of Kinnick or on the road, your energy and passion were the driving force behind every game and every moment. From the iconic “Iowa Wave” to the chants and cheers that echo throughout the stadium, you made this experience unforgettable. You showed me what it truly means to be part of something bigger than myself, and for that I am forever grateful.

“To my coaches: Thank you for believing in me, challenging me and pushing me to become the best version of myself on and off the field.” The lessons you’ve taught me go far beyond football – they are lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Your guidance and mentor have shaped me not only as a player but as a man and I am incredibly grateful for the influence you have had on my journey.

“To my teammates: You are more than just teammates – you are family. The bonds we built, the challenges we faced, and the memories we created together will always hold a special place in my heart. Every training session, every game, every moment together has made me better and I am proud to have fought alongside each and every one of you.

“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to take the next step in my journey and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision was not easy for me, but it is with great excitement and anticipation that I accept the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The foundation I built here at Iowa prepared me for this moment, and I carry the Hawkeye spirit with me as I move forward.

“Thank you for shaping me, supporting me and believing in me. Iowa will always be my home and I will forever be a Hawkeye.

“With gratitude and love, Kaleb ‘K2’ Johnson”

On Friday against Nebraska, Johnson rushed for 45 yards and had a 72-yard touchdown reception. The Hawkeyes went 13-10 and finished the regular season 8-4.

Johnson finished the 2024 regular season with 1,537 rushing yards and 23 total touchdowns.

For Johnson, this was a historic moment in football. He recorded single-season program records for points, total touchdowns and rushing scores.

Johnson developed himself into one of the best running backs in the country with his breakout season and was named a finalist for the Doak Walker Award. Johnson burst onto the scene as a true freshman, but that didn’t carry over to last season where he had a tumultuous season.

“He’s putting his experience to good use,” Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz said of Johnson ahead of the Iowa-Nebraska game. “He runs smarter, runs better, runs stronger.” Everything is better at the moment. He has a great attitude. He’s really fun to be on the field with and fun to be around here or anywhere else.

“He’s just a good young man. Yes, it was fun watching his maturity and growth. He always had good skills. Part of it is also improving your mentality. And that’s the advantage of being older, sure.”

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