Iowa’s football program has long been celebrated for producing elite interior linemen, a legacy underscored by recent Rimington Trophy winners Tyler Linderbaum and Logan Jones.
Both players have moved on to the professional ranks — Linderbaum as a first‑round pick in 2022 and Jones as a second‑round selection in 2026 — leaving a void at the heart of the Hawkeyes’ offensive front.
A Deep and Versatile Line
Coach Kirk Ferentz, now in his 25th season, must replace Jones at center, a task he approaches with confidence in the depth of his roster.
Offensive line coach George Barnett, who guided the unit to the 2025 Joe Moore Award, has identified Kade Pieper as the leading candidate to slide into the middle after Pieper earned the only preseason All‑Big Ten honor among linemen.
Pieper, who started every game at right guard last year, brings experience and versatility, but he is not the only option; Trevor Lauck, a returning left tackle, and emerging players such as Leighton Jones, Jack Dotzler, Cael Winter and Michael Myslinski are also in the mix.
Ferentz has said the team could deploy seven to nine linemen in significant roles, reflecting a talent pool that remains among the strongest in the conference.
The coaching staff believes the combination of proven returners and promising newcomers will allow Iowa to maintain its reputation for a stout offensive line.