A Decorah Native Joins the Countdown
The excitement surrounding the 2026 Iowa Hawkeyes football season has reached a new level, and at the center of the buzz is offensive lineman Will Hahn, who will wear the iconic jersey number 52. A redshirt freshman from Decorah, Hahn brings a blend of size, technique, and relentless work ethic to the line.
Hahn's high school career at Decorah High School was nothing short of spectacular. He earned two all‑state selections, helped his team to a 19‑win season that included a 10‑1 record and a district title in his senior year, and was recognized as a two‑way player who excelled on both the offensive and defensive lines.
During his prep years he amassed 91.5 tackles and 11 sacks, numbers that caught the eye of several college programs. Initially committing to Iowa Western Community College, Hahn's path took a decisive turn when assistant coach Jay Niemann called him late in the recruiting cycle, persuading him to join the Hawkeyes. The young lineman has since expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to wear the black and gold.
Number 52 carries a storied history at Iowa, most notably associated with former linebacker Abdul Hodge, who wore the jersey from 2002 to 2005. Hodge became a first‑team All‑Big Ten selection in both 2003 and 2004 and helped the Hawkeyes to 38 victories during his collegiate career. Hahn joins a lineage of players who have left a lasting imprint on the program.
As the Hawkeyes gear up for the 2026 campaign, coaches and analysts alike see Hahn as a key piece of the offensive line's future. His blend of experience, physicality, and coachability positions him to contribute immediately, and the coaching staff is optimistic that his development will help stabilize a unit that aims to compete at the highest level of Big Ten play.