Iowa football is officially back on the practice field, marking the start of summer workouts that will set the tone for the upcoming season. The Hawkeyes are bringing together a roster that blends proven veterans with a wave of newcomers eager to make an impact.
Last year the team finished 9‑4 and capped the campaign with a decisive victory over Vanderbilt in the ReliaQuest Bowl, a win that underscored the program’s upward trajectory. The success was built on a potent offense and a defense that showed flashes of dominance.
A Mix of Experience and Fresh Talent
While the Hawkeyes will miss the bulk of last season’s production, they are not starting from scratch. Younger players who earned valuable snaps last year are poised to step up, and the transfer portal has added several key pieces who bring both size and skill.
The schedule ahead presents a daunting early stretch within the Big Ten, but the non‑conference portion offers a manageable path that could allow the team to build confidence before the real tests begin.
Coaches and players alike are emphasizing continuity and competition in the summer sessions, hoping the groundwork laid now will translate into a strong start when the regular season kicks off.