The Iowa Hawkeyes are officially in 2026 mode, and after a 9-4 season capped by a statement win in the ReliaQuest Bowl, the focus now shifts to what’s next. As usual, that means reloading - and in Iowa City, that’s not a new challenge, it’s a tradition.
The Hawkeyes are staring down the departure of 27 seniors, a group that left its mark on both sides of the ball. That kind of turnover would rattle most programs, but Iowa’s built a reputation on consistency and development.
It’s part of the reason they’ve landed at No. 21 in the early top-25 rankings for 2026. The belief in this program runs deep - and for good reason.
Let’s start with the trenches, where Iowa has always made its living. The offensive line could be a real strength this fall.
Left tackle Trevor Lauck returns as a cornerstone, and he’ll be flanked by standout right guard Kade Pieper. That duo gives Iowa a foundation to build around, especially with a new quarterback stepping in.
And that quarterback spot? It’s the biggest storyline heading into spring.
Right now, former Wake Forest transfer Jeremy Hecklinski holds the early edge. He’s got the tools to run this offense, but he’ll have competition.
Hank Brown and Jimmy Sullivan are both in the mix, and don’t sleep on Tradon Bessinger, the four-star freshman who’s already turning heads. The quarterback room is young, but it’s talented - and Iowa’s not afraid to let competition shape the depth chart.
On defense, it’s a familiar script: reload and regroup. Losing safety Koen Entringer is a big hit, and there’s work to be done up front.
But this is Iowa - defense is the brand. The Hawkeyes are active in the portal, plugging gaps with experienced talent, particularly in the secondary and along the defensive line.
The staff knows what it takes to build a top-tier unit, and they’ve been methodical in how they’re doing it.
The transfer portal has been a bigger part of the equation than in years past, and Iowa’s using it wisely. They’ve added muscle in the trenches, upgraded the secondary, and brought in playmakers to elevate the skill positions. It’s not a full rebuild - it’s a strategic reload.
So yes, there are questions. But there’s also a blueprint.
And if history is any indication, Iowa won’t just answer those questions - they’ll turn them into strengths. The 2026 season is shaping up to be another classic Hawkeye campaign: tough, disciplined, and quietly dangerous.