Football

Kade Pieper Poised to Anchor Iowa’s Offensive Line in Pursuit of NFL Draft Glory

The Hawkeye’s transition to center follows Logan Jones’ departure, setting the stage for a breakout 2026 season

Iowa’s offensive line is already drawing preseason buzz, with senior Kade Pieper earning spots on multiple All‑America lists.

The Hawkeye was recognized by Walter Camp, On3 and Athlon Sports, and he also made the Associated Press preseason All‑American team, the only Iowa player selected this year.

Last season Pieper started every game at right guard, earning first‑team All‑American honors from Pro Football Focus and a third‑team nod from conference media.

From Guard to Center

With Logan Jones, the 2024 Rimington Award winner, heading to the NFL, the team will shift Pieper to center, where he will anchor the line alongside Trevor Lauck.

Coach Kirk Ferentz highlighted the move as a natural progression, noting that the new duo gives Iowa a chance to repeat as Joe Moore Award winners.

Pieper says the upcoming season is a chance to boost his draft profile, with scouts already tracking his performance as a potential first‑round pick.

Iowa’s history of producing top‑tier linemen under Ferentz adds context to the excitement surrounding Pieper’s next chapter.

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