Iowa Hawkeyes Star Kaleb Johnson Traded to Packers as NFL Places Josh Jacobs on Exempt List
Former Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kaleb Johnson is getting a fresh start in Green Bay, just as the Packers prepare for a potential suspension of star back Josh Jacobs. The NFL placed Jacobs on the commissioner's exempt list on Aug. 30, a move that opens the door for Johnson to compete for a starting role.
Johnson, who dominated at the collegiate level during his junior season at Iowa in 2023 with 1,537 rushing yards and 23 total touchdowns, struggled to find his footing as a rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He logged just 28 carries for 69 yards in 2025, serving as the team's RB3 behind veteran Kenny Gainwell.
What does the exempt list mean for Josh Jacobs?
While on the commissioner's exempt list, Jacobs will continue to be paid but cannot practice or play in games. There is no set timeline for how long he will remain on the list, and he could still face a suspension. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst acknowledged the team has been preparing for this scenario.
“Brian Gutekunst said they've been preparing for a scenario of Josh Jacobs being suspended, just to cover all their bases in case that happens,” reported Matt Scheidman, Green Bay beat writer for The Athletic. “He's confident in the RB room behind Jacobs but doesn't rule out an additional move. Said they'll tackle that if/when something happens.”
How does Kaleb Johnson fit in Green Bay?
ESPN senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler reported that the Steelers are trading Johnson to the Packers. The move gives Green Bay added depth and a potential starter if Jacobs faces discipline.
Johnson was once viewed as a breakout fantasy candidate and was even ranked above Steelers RB1 Jaylen Warren on some draft boards heading into 2025. His collegiate production at Iowa made him an intriguing prospect, but things have not clicked at the NFL level yet.
In Green Bay, Johnson will compete with MarShawn Lloyd for the starting job if Jacobs is unavailable. Lloyd, a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has played in only one game due to a series of injuries. He is healthy entering 2026 and showed promise in the preseason, including 28 scrimmage yards and a touchdown against the Denver Broncos.
What is the fantasy football outlook for Johnson and Lloyd?
Fantasy managers in later rounds should consider taking a chance on both Johnson and Lloyd. Either could win the starting job in Green Bay if Jacobs receives a suspension. Johnson's college pedigree and Lloyd's preseason flashes make both intriguing late-round targets.
Why this matters for Iowa fans
For Iowa Hawkeyes fans, Johnson's move to Green Bay is a significant storyline. The former standout has a chance to resurrect his NFL career in a division rival's backfield, and his success would be a point of pride for the state. Packers games are widely followed in Iowa, and Johnson's potential role adds local interest to the 2026 season.