Bariyus Allen, a 6‑foot‑5, 300‑pound defensive lineman from Belmont High School in Ohio, revealed his decision on June 7, confirming that he will continue his football career at the University of Iowa. The announcement marks the latest addition to Iowa’s 2027 recruiting class, which is already shaping up to be one of the most promising in recent years.
A Standout Prospect
Allen arrives as a three‑star recruit according to the 247Sports Composite, a rating that reflects both his physical tools and on‑field production. Listed at 6‑foot‑5 and 300 pounds, he brings a rare combination of size and athleticism that caught the attention of several Big Ten programs.
His athletic metrics, as recorded on his Hudl profile, include a 4.9‑second 40‑yard dash, a 300‑pound bench press and a 500‑pound squat. Those numbers place him among the more physically imposing linemen in the region and underscore his potential for immediate impact at the collegiate level.
Recruiting Landscape
Beyond Iowa, Allen held offers from Boston College, Kent State, Northern Illinois and Ohio University, among other schools. The breadth of his interest signaled a high demand for his talents, yet the Hawkeyes’ coaching staff succeeded in securing his pledge.
Allen becomes the third defensive lineman to commit to Iowa’s 2027 class, following Tommy Riordan and Jerrence Knoblock, both of whom are also rated as three‑star prospects. Their commitments collectively address the program’s need for depth and talent along the defensive front.
The addition of Allen is expected to bolster Iowa’s defensive line rotation and provide the coaching staff with more flexibility in scheming against opposing offenses. As the class continues to fill out, the Hawkeyes aim to maintain momentum in a recruiting cycle that has seen increased visibility and success in recent years.