2025 NFL Draft prospect compared to ex-Rams RB Todd Gurley
2025 NFL Draft prospect compared to ex-Rams RB Todd Gurley
The Los Angeles Rams have a potential franchise running back in Kyren Williams, but they could still look to add another rusher in the 2025 NFL Draft. And if they want to find someone that emulates one of their old franchise running backs, they could find him in Iowa's Kaleb Johnson.
Pro Football Focus compared Johnson to ex-Rams star running back Todd Gurley, per their 2025 Draft guide.
"Johnson is a physically gifted running back who excels with the ball in his hands. As an early-down player, he can be successful behind any blocking scheme with good vision, light footwork and impressive burst and power. However, his lack of polish and reliability in third-down situations could keep him from being an every-down running back."
Johnson led the Big 12 with 1,537 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns in 2024. He also caught 22 receptions for 188 yards and two touchdowns.
At 6-foot and 225 pounds, Johnson has a solid build for a power running back. He can run and catch well and has the makings of one of the best running backs of the 2010s in Gurley. Johnson's issues, though, as his pass-blocking ability. That will likely push him to Day 2 or Day 3 of the draft.
Gurley isn't a terrible player to be compared to despite only playing six seasons in the NFL. He won Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2015, Offensive Player of the Year in 2017, two All-Pro teams and three Pro Bowl teams. Gurley led the NFL in rushing and total touchdowns in a season twice (2017 and 2018) and finished with 8,336 scrimmage yards and 79 total touchdowns in 88 games.
The Rams likely won't look at running back until the latter half of the draft because of Williams and 2024 third-rounder Blake Corum. However, the Williams is also in the final year of his contract and could hit free agency after the 2025 season if the Rams can't come to an agreement.
If L.A. wants to add a good running back with comparable skills to another successful Rams player, Johnson is an intriguing option.
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