Preseason Outlook
The Iowa City West Wolves concluded the 2025 campaign with an 8‑3 record, earning a spot in the Iowa High School Athletic Association State Football quarterfinals. The run marked a resurgence for a program that has steadily built momentum over the past few seasons.
Heading into 2026, the team will be anchored by quarterback Reece Wheeler, who threw for nearly 2,300 yards and 22 touchdowns last year. Wheeler’s experience and poise have made him the focal point of the offense as the Wolves look to translate preseason optimism into on‑field success.
The offense will need to replace three pivotal contributors: a 1,000‑yard rusher, a 1,000‑yard receiver, and a standout playmaker. Campbell Janis, who amassed 1,338 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, and Ethan Headings, who posted 56 receptions for 1,202 yards and 13 scores, are among the key departures. Julian Manson also contributed 31 catches for 560 yards and six touchdowns before moving on.
Despite the losses, the line returns two reliable anchors, Jordi Zioka and James Barnett, who logged 15 and 12 pancake blocks respectively in 2025. Their continuity should provide Wheeler with the protection needed to exploit the remaining weapons.
On defense, the Wolves will miss Manson, Headings and Janis, but junior Abdul Hodge, Jr. is emerging as a player to watch after recording 40 tackles, an interception and six passes defended. Kicker Jadon Vanderpuye, who impressed as a sophomore, is expected to take over the kicking duties.
The schedule remains demanding. Iowa City West opens the season against Iowa City High in a much‑anticipated rivalry, then travels to face Dubuque, Pleasant Valley and Bettendorf. Additional tests include matchups with Muscatine, Davenport Central, Cedar Rapids Prairie and Linn‑Mar before the regular season concludes.
Ranked seventh in the early preseason Top 25 poll by High School On SI Iowa, the Wolves enter the year with high expectations. Head coach Kirk Ferentz’s program is viewed as a dark horse capable of contending for a state title if the pieces fall into place.