Iowa's Kaleb Johnson, Jay Higgins Join College Football's Elite List

Iowa Hawkeyes standout players Kaleb Johnson and Jay Higgins have been recognized for their exceptional performances this season, both earning consensus All-American honors and ranking in Pro Football Focus' top 101 college players, with Johnson at No. 27 and Higgins at No. 44. Johnson, a running back, set a school record with 1,537 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns, while Higgins, a linebacker, recorded 118 tackles and four interceptions. As the Hawkeyes look ahead to the 2025 season, the team's defense will undergo significant changes, losing key players like Higgins and needing to adapt to new roles. Johnson is projected to be a high draft pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, although concerns about his receiving ability may influence teams' evaluations. Despite this, his explosive playmaking potential keeps him on the radar for NFL teams. Both players symbolize Iowa's continued ability to produce top talent for the professional league.