Iowa’s football program released its Week 1 depth chart on Tuesday, offering a first look at how the Hawkeyes plan to line up for their season opener against Northern Illinois. The chart highlights a number of positional battles that will shape the team’s early-game strategy.
Among the most closely watched races is the quarterback spot, where veteran Jeremy Hecklinski and emerging talent Hank Brown are locked in a contest that remains unresolved. Coach Hecklinski’s staff has yet to name a starter, leaving fans guessing about the offensive direction.
At safety, Tyler Brown will be absent for the first game, creating an opening for Jaylen Watson to step in as the starting cornerback. Watson will be flanked by backups Jacob Wallace and Rashad Godfrey Jr., who are expected to provide depth in the secondary.
Special teams duties have been assigned to Caden Buhr as the placekicker and Boston Everitt as the primary punter, with Tanner Philpott listed as a backup. Their performances will be closely watched as the team looks to solidify field position early in the season.
Defensively, the line will feature experienced ends Kenneth Merriweather and Iose Epenesa, while the linebacker corps will be anchored by Cam Buffington, Jayden Montgomery and Landyn Van Kekerix. The running back and tight end positions will be manned by Kamari Moulton and DJ Vonnahme, respectively.
At wide receiver, Reece Vander Zee and Tony Diaz are slated to start, with Evan James also expected to see action. The offensive line appears set, with Trevor Lauck, Leighton Jones, Cael Winter, Kade Pieper and Jack Dotzler retaining their spots from the previous season.
Quarterback battle remains open
The competition between Hecklinski and Brown underscores the coaching staff’s willingness to experiment, and the final decision could influence the team’s early momentum as they head into the first game of the season.