The Iowa Hawkeyes are making their presence felt in the NFL once again - and this time, it’s on the Pro Bowl stage. Five former Hawkeyes have earned spots in the 2026 NFL Pro Bowl Games, which will feature a mix of skills competitions and a 7-on-7 flag football showdown on February 3 in San Francisco.
Let’s break it down.
Tyler Linderbaum (Ravens) is heading to his third Pro Bowl, and it’s easy to see why. The former Iowa center has quietly become one of the most dependable offensive linemen in the league.
Anchoring the middle of Baltimore’s line, Linderbaum has allowed just two sacks over 488 pass-blocking snaps - solid numbers by any standard. But where he really shines is in the run game.
With a Pro Football Focus run-blocking grade of 83.2, he’s been a key piece in helping the Ravens maintain their physical identity up front.
Tristan Wirfs (Buccaneers) continues to build a résumé that’s starting to look like it belongs in Canton someday. The Bucs’ star tackle is heading to his fifth Pro Bowl, and he’s doing it with elite-level consistency.
His 92.0 PFF grade makes him Tampa Bay’s highest-graded offensive player, and he’s allowed just two sacks in 445 pass-blocking snaps. That kind of protection is invaluable, especially for a team that’s leaned on Wirfs to stabilize an offensive line in transition.
George Kittle (49ers) is no stranger to the Pro Bowl - this marks his seventh appearance. While injuries have limited his statistical output this season, Kittle reminded everyone why he’s still one of the most dangerous tight ends in football with a vintage performance under the lights on Monday Night Football. Against the Colts, he hauled in seven catches for 115 yards and a touchdown - a timely reminder of how much he can tilt a game when healthy.
Now to the newcomers.
Cooper DeJean (Eagles) has wasted no time making an impact in his rookie season. The first-year defensive back has been a playmaker in the Eagles’ secondary, racking up 84 tackles, 16 pass deflections, and two interceptions.
That kind of productivity - especially in a high-pressure defensive scheme like Philly’s - speaks volumes about his instincts and athleticism. For a rookie to earn Pro Bowl honors this quickly?
That’s rare air.
Jack Campbell (Lions) is another first-timer, but his numbers don’t look like those of a Pro Bowl rookie - they look like those of a seasoned vet. He’s posted a career-high 159 tackles, with nine of those coming behind the line of scrimmage, and he’s forced three fumbles along the way. Campbell has been a tone-setter for a Detroit defense that’s taken major strides this season, and his physical, sideline-to-sideline play has been a big reason why.
All told, this group of former Hawkeyes isn’t just making the Pro Bowl - they’re doing it with impact. Whether it’s Kittle’s savvy, Wirfs’ dominance, or the immediate contributions from DeJean and Campbell, Iowa’s pipeline to the NFL is producing not just starters, but stars.
Last year, Iowa ranked 20th all-time in Pro Bowl selections. With five more names added to the list, the Hawkeyes are climbing - and fast.
This isn’t just a good year for Iowa alumni in the league. It’s a statement.