LJ Phillips, a newly signed running back for the Iowa Hawkeyes, is entering fall camp with a clear goal: to trim down to his target playing weight of 205 pounds.
During his lone season at South Dakota, Phillips posted more than 1,900 rushing yards, highlighted by a 300‑yard performance against Northern Colorado, numbers that have drawn attention from the Iowa coaching staff.
A Fresh Start in Iowa
The transition has been as much mental as physical. Phillips says the support of his father, who has been a constant presence throughout his career, helped seal his decision to join the Big Ten program.
Coaches have praised the running back’s work ethic in the weight room, noting that shedding excess pounds has sharpened his agility and allowed him to compete at a higher intensity during drills.
As the Hawkeyes gear up for the upcoming season, Phillips is expected to battle for a starting role, with the coaching staff emphasizing that his reduced weight could translate into more explosive plays on the field.
Fall camp will be a crucial test, and if Phillips can maintain his new physique, Iowa may find a dynamic weapon to anchor its offense.