
Iowa Hawkeyes’ Punt Return Legacy Faces a Crucial Transition
Iowa’s special‑teams unit has been a cornerstone for decades, and the departure of star returner Kaden Wetjen creates both a challenge and an opportunity for the Hawkeyes.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Kaden Wetjen across Football.

Iowa’s special‑teams unit has been a cornerstone for decades, and the departure of star returner Kaden Wetjen creates both a challenge and an opportunity for the Hawkeyes.
The Hawkeyes face a pivotal season as they replace a wave of departing talent with emerging leaders.

Former Iowa Hawkeyes players make their 2026 NFL preseason debuts across a series of Week 1 games, with several matchups broadcast on NFL Network, ESPN Unlimited and NFL+.
The Hawkeyes aim to rewrite their offensive narrative in 2026, targeting a 32‑point average and a resurgence of the passing game under new coordinator Tim Lester.
LeVar Woods, the new special teams coordinator at Michigan State, is rebuilding the unit through versatile player development, strategic portal additions, and a championship‑level approach endorsed by coach Pat Fitzgerald.

After losing key playmakers, the Iowa Hawkeyes' 2026 WR room brings together proven veterans, high‑profile transfers and promising newcomers, setting the stage for a potential offensive resurgence.

The Iowa Hawkeyes open the 2026 campaign ranked No. 22 in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll, but a wave of departures from the special‑teams unit has sparked a rebuilding effort led by new coordinator Chris Polizzi and a trio of fresh specialists.
Coach Kirk Ferentz discusses the evolving quarterback race, the potential of the secondary and linebackers, and the challenges facing the defensive line and special teams.
Ferentz discusses the quarterback duel between Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski, the potential extension of the race into the season, and the challenges facing the defensive line, while highlighting the promise of the secondary, linebackers, and special teams.
After a breakthrough stretch that saw Iowa’s offense surge in the final nine quarters of the 2025 season, offensive coordinator Tim Lester is betting that a Shanahan‑style scheme will anchor the Hawkeyes’ resurgence.
A deep dive into Iowa's 2026 freshman class, spotlighting standout recruits and their potential impact.
From four‑star defensive back Marcello Vitti to Australian punter Boston Everitt, Iowa's 2026 newcomers are poised to reshape the team's dynamics.

With key starters gone, Iowa is counting on a new generation of talent to fill the void and drive the Hawkeyes forward.

The Michigan Wolverines and Iowa Hawkeyes meet in a pivotal early‑season conference game that could set the tone for their College Football Playoff aspirations.

Michigan and Iowa meet for the 65th time in a battle that hinges on trench warfare, quarterback competition and the Hawkeyes' revamped defense.

The 2026 college football season is already generating buzz as analysts and fans alike circle a handful of games that could reshape the playoff picture.

The Badgers and the Hawkeyes meet again in 2026, a game that could shape Wisconsin's season and test Iowa's renewed ambition.

The Steelers are set to rely on DK Metcalf as a cornerstone piece while integrating new pieces around him, including veteran running backs and a quarterback whose career is winding down.

DK Metcalf's 2026 performance will be shaped by a revamped Steelers offense, the arrival of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and competition from emerging playmakers, influencing his fantasy value across leagues.

Three Iowa players — Addison Ostrenga, Jayden Montgomery and Zach Lutmer — will represent the Hawkeyes at Big Ten Media Day, embodying a program that prizes potential over pedigree. Coach Kirk Ferentz’s history of turning low‑rated prospects into NFL talent underscores the team’s unique approach.

With Chris Polizzi taking the reins, the Hawkeyes are reshaping their kicking game, adding experienced talent and fresh competition ahead of their Week 1 matchup against Northern Illinois.

Michigan State has appointed LeVar Woods as its new special teams coordinator and assistant head coach, a move that comes with a $1.1 million salary and brings a proven track record of top‑10 units from his Iowa tenure.

With LeVar Woods departing for Michigan State and Chris Polizzi stepping in, Iowa must replace key special teams contributors and integrate new talent to preserve its historic edge.

The Hawkeyes are reshaping their roster and coaching staff as they gear up for the upcoming campaign, blending new talent with Iowa's distinctive traditions.