"I have decided to take the next step": Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson declares for the 2025 NFL Draft following a historic season

After a record-breaking season at Iowa, Kaleb Johnson has announced his decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. The junior, who has one year of college eligibility remaining, entered the 2024 season as a reserve but went on to be named as a finalist for the Doak Walker Award, which is given to the top college running back in the country.

Johnson shared his decision on Sunday night via Instagram, expressing heartfelt gratitude for his time with the Hawkeyes nation. While his career at Iowa has come to an end, the running back did not explicitly state whether he will participate in Iowa’s upcoming bowl game.

“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to take the next step in my journey and declare for the 2025 NFL draft,” Johnson wrote in the heartfelt post on Instagram.

“This decision was not made lightly, but it is with great excitement and anticipation that I embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead. The foundation I’ve built here at Iowa has prepared me for this moment, and I carry the Hawkeye spirit with me as I move forward.“

Kaleb Johnson tallied 1,537 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns on 240 carries during the 2024 college football season. He set the program's single-season record for touchdowns and was third in single-season rushing yards.

He ranked No. 4 in the nation in rushing yards, behind Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton and UCF’s RJ Harvey.

He wraps up his college career with an impressive résumé, amassing 508 carries for 2,779 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns. In addition to his contributions on the ground, he recorded 29 receptions for 240 yards and two receiving touchdowns.

Kaleb Johnson sends a lot of appreciation in his farewell message

Kaleb Johnson ended his career at Iowa on a high note and he was grateful to everyone who made it happen in his farewell message on Sunday night. His first appreciation went to the Hawkeyes fans.

“To the fans: Thank you for your unwavering support, week in and week out. Whether it was under the bright lights at Kinnick or on the road, your energy and passion have been a driving force behind every game, every moment."

He also extended his appreciation to his coaches at Iowa.

“To my coaches: Thank you for believing in me, challenging me, and pushing me to become the best version of myself both on and off the field. The lessons you’ve taught me go far beyond football. They are lessons I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”

Johnson is hoping to become the first Iowa running back drafted to the NFL since the New York Jets picked Shonn Greene in the third round in 2009. ESPN's Field Yates currently has Johnson ranked as the second-best running back in the 2025 draft behind Boise State's Ashton Jeanty.