Kaleb Johnson was asked for his preference, and his answer speaks to what the NFL likes about his game.
In a clutch situation on game day, would the former Iowa star running back get more joy out of using his physicality to beat the opposing defense or his legs to leave would-be tacklers in his wake.
"Depends if I have a lane or not," the 6-foot-2, 225-pound Johnson said with a smile. "If they're in my way, I'm running them over. But if I got a chance to break away, and I can use my speed, I'm gonna do that."
With a combination of vision, patience and toughness, Johnson is the headliner in the list of our five favorite running back prospects that fit with the New York Giants in the 2025 NFL Draft. Team brass has done a lot of homework in what the league believes is a deep class at the position, so it would not be a surprise if Big Blue adds one in the draft this year.
Johnson spent Wednesday inside the Giants' facility on a "30" visit, and he was catching up with a familiar face: Ladell Betts, who joined Brian Daboll's coaching staff this offseason as running backs coach after serving in that capacity at - you guessed it - Iowa, where he was Johnson's position coach.
Johnson rushed for more than 1,500 yards and 21 touchdowns, leading the Big 10 in both categories. He also showed great ball security with zero fumbles in 240 carries. He had 21 carries of 20 or more yards last season, the second most in the nation.
Admittedly, he thought it was a bit weird when, upon meeting with the Giants at the Combine, he walked into their Lucas Oil Stadium suite and came face-to-face with Betts.
"I got a very, very good vibe from them," Johnson said.
NY Giants depth chart: Running back
Who's new: None
Who left: None
What they still need: The Giants saw a lot to like from Tracy last season. There's room for another back to complement Tracy, or for Tracy to complement.
How they stack up: Tyrone Tracy, Devin Singletary, Eric Gray, Turbo Miller
Here are four more of our favorite RB draft prospects
Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State: At 6-foot-1 and 226 pounds, Gordon is a physical back who led the nation two seasons ago with 1,732 yards with 21 touchdowns and an additional 330 yards and one touchdown receiving. He'll be visiting the Giants, and they'll likely dig in on his arrest on suspicion of DUI last summer. He has the size and build to set the tone - think Derrick Henry, which is obvious high praise. That's not a comparison of players, just styles, and that is something the Giants could add to their backfield.
Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State: ...
