On Wednesday and Thursday, Kaleb Johnson had visits with the New York Giants and Cincinnati, respectively, in preparation for the 2025 NFL Draft. The Big Ten Running Back of the Year and consensus All-American will assuredly have more “top-30” visits in the coming week.

The Giants have made it no secret that they are entertaining the idea of a big-ticket running back during the draft as a possible upgrade from starter Tyrone Tracy and Devin Singletary. New York won’t likely spend their No. 3 overall pick on a running back, but they do pick again at No.34. Projected as an early Day 2 pick, he should still be on the board when the Giants select second in Round 2.

Cincinnati has rapidly become a wildcard in the draft by way of dipping their toes in the pool with visits from TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins (OSU) in addition to welcoming in Johnson on Thursday. The Bengals own the 49th overall pick (coming in Round 2) and Johnson will likely be off the board, barring a trade-up scenario for Cincinnati.

Johnson rushed for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns at Iowa in 2024 alone and has rapidly become a hot name to watch in an already talented draft class. He’s hoping to take his electric running style and stellar pass protection to a starting role in the league.