The Iowa Hawkeyes enter the 2026 campaign under a microscope, having lost 27 seniors and seven players who earned NFL draft selections.
Linebacker Cam Buffington is slated to assume the middle linebacker role vacated by All‑American Josey Jewell, Jack Campbell and Jay Higgins, while tight end DJ Vonnahme will be counted on to stretch defenses and provide a reliable outlet in the passing game.
Fourth‑year defensive tackle Bryce Hawthorne must play a crucial role despite limited FBS snaps, as Iowa’s defensive tackle position is thin, and offensive lineman Kade Pieper, a preseason All‑America selection, must anchor a unit depleted by recent draft departures.
Captain of the secondary Zach Lutmer will also handle punt‑return duties previously held by Kaden Wetjen, and fourth‑year placekicker Eli Ozick is expected to take over field‑goal responsibilities, though he will not match the accuracy of departed star Drew Stevens.
Quarterback competition between Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski will determine who leads the offense, adding another layer of uncertainty as the team prepares for its Sept. 5 opener.
A pivotal opener
The Hawkeyes open the season against Northern Illinois on Sept. 5, a game that will test whether the new leadership can translate practice promise into on‑field results.
Coach Kirk Ferentz, now in his 25th season, has emphasized continuity but acknowledges the steep learning curve facing his young roster.