Kaden Wetjen Caps Off Historic Season with Shrine Bowl Invite
Kaden Wetjen's final season in Iowa City has been nothing short of electric. The senior return specialist out of Williamsburg, Iowa, didn’t just make noise-he rewrote the Hawkeyes’ record books with a season that will be remembered for years to come.
Wetjen racked up a staggering 965 return yards-538 on punts and 427 on kickoffs-and found the end zone four times on special teams alone. That level of production didn’t just earn him headlines; it earned him hardware.
Wetjen was named a consensus All-American, joining teammate Logan Jones among the nation’s elite. He also took home First-Team All-Big Ten honors as a return specialist and is widely expected to repeat as the Jet Award winner, given annually to the top return man in college football.
But perhaps the most eye-popping stat? Wetjen now holds the Iowa program record for most career return touchdowns with six, surpassing none other than Tim Dwight-a name synonymous with elite return play in Hawkeye lore. That’s not just breaking a record; that’s stepping into legendary territory.
And while Iowa fans are hoping he adds one more highlight in the team’s upcoming matchup against Vanderbilt, Wetjen’s season isn’t ending there. He’s officially accepted an invitation to the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl, set for January 27 in Frisco, Texas.
The Shrine Bowl is one of college football’s most prestigious all-star showcases, dating back to 1925. It’s a proving ground for NFL hopefuls, with scouts, coaches, and executives from all 32 teams watching closely. For Wetjen, it’s another chance to put his elite speed and vision on display-this time on a national stage with pro implications.
He’ll be joined by teammate Max Llewellyn, and if special teams units dare to kick his way, don’t be surprised if Wetjen adds another house call to his résumé. When he gets the ball in space, it’s not just a play-it’s a moment.
Beyond the football, the Shrine Bowl serves a bigger purpose. All proceeds benefit Shriners Children’s hospitals, supporting care for over two million kids. So not only will Wetjen be chasing his NFL dreams, he’ll be doing it in a game that gives back.
From setting records in black and gold to chasing the next level under the Shrine Bowl lights, Kaden Wetjen’s story is still being written. And if this season is any indication, there are more fireworks to come.