When ESPN unveiled its latest all‑time rankings, the name that rose to the summit for jersey No. 24 was none other than Nile Kinnick, the Iowa Hawkeyes' singular Heisman Trophy winner of 1939. The announcement not only highlighted Kinnick's on‑field brilliance but also underscored the enduring impact of a player whose legacy still shapes the program.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Kinnick's 1939 season was a masterclass in versatility. He threw for 638 yards and 11 touchdowns while adding 374 rushing yards on the ground, a combination that helped him secure the Heisman Trophy, the AP Male Athlete of the Year, and a First‑Team All‑American nod. His dominance earned him the Big Ten MVP and cemented his place in college football lore.
The Hawkeyes honored Kinnick by retiring his No. 24, a testament to the lasting impression he made on the university. Alongside him, Cal Jones also has his number retired, while other iconic figures such as Jack Campbell, Chuck Long, and a lineage of tight ends and offensive linemen have left indelible marks on Iowa football.
A Tradition of Trailblazers
Beyond Kinnick, Iowa's history reads like a roll call of future NFL stars. Jack Campbell, a Butkus Award winner and unanimous All‑American, wore No. 31, while Chuck Long, the architect of Iowa's passing records, donned No. 16. More recent standouts — including Sam LaPorta, Tristan Wirfs, Tyler Linderbaum, and Brandon Scherff — have continued the tradition of producing elite talent at every position.
The program's rich tapestry of success is also reflected in its partnership with ESPN, the network that now celebrates these achievements. Together, they spotlight a legacy that stretches from the early 20th century to today's modern game, reminding fans that excellence is a habit, not a moment.