Five former Hawkeyes heard their names called during the 2025 NFL Draft as the NFL pipeline from Iowa City to the NFL remains strong under Kirk Ferentz. Two of the five former Hawkeyes made their way to the Steel City.
Former superstar running back Kaleb Johnson and defensive anchor Yahya Black are headed to Pittsburgh. Johnson was drafted on day two in the third round with the No. 83 overall pick and Black was drafted on day three in the fifth round with the No. 164 overall pick.
After being drafted in the third and fifth rounds, the former Hawkeyes inked deals with their new team
Kaleb Johnson, running back (Round 3, No. 83 overall)
We have signed RB Kaleb Johnson to a four-year contract. @BordasLaw
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) May 9, 2025
📝: https://t.co/wmKmyNzkVz pic.twitter.com/4ZsQM12rW9
After a historic season in Iowa City, Kaleb Johnson is taking his talents to Pittsburgh. On Friday, the former Iowa star inked a four-year rookie deal with the Steelers.
Last season, Johnson was the focal point of the Iowa offense. In 12 games (11 starts), Johnson tallied 1,537 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns, all career highs. His 21 rushing touchdowns broke Shonn Greene's former school record of 20 rushing touchdowns (2008).
During his three seasons with the Hawkeyes, Johnson tallied 2,779 yards and 30 touchdowns on 508 carries. He also caught 29 passes for 240 yards and two touchdowns.
The Steelers' Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith, is excited to have Johnson on board.
"We think he's a great culture fit. Obviously, extremely fired up to get Kaleb in here."Arthur Smith, Pittsburgh Steelers OC
Yahya Black, defensive line (Round 5, No. 164 overall)
We have signed DE Yahya Black to a four-year contract. @BordasLaw
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) May 9, 2025
📝: https://t.co/RZfOcwCQVk pic.twitter.com/x89lmW2h8g
Yahya Black was the second defensive lineman and Hawkeye chosen by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Black started all 13 games for the Hawkeyes last season, tallying 34 tackles (18 solo), including seven tackles for loss, and one sack.
During five seasons with the Hawkeyes, Black tallied 117 tackles (51 solo), with 5.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Black made a pre-draft visit to the Steel City and loved every inch of the city. His new defensive line coach, Karl Dunbar, is happy to have Black.
"Really excited about Yahya. I like the things he brings to the table in the fifth round."Karl Dunbar, Steelers D-Line Coach
Johnson and Black are on the rookie minicamp roster and are practicing with the team this weekend.