The Iowa Hawkeyes are gearing up for a lively summer as they welcome a fresh wave of talent to their football program. With a mix of transfers and true freshmen, the Hawkeyes hope to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season—and maybe even shake things up for years to come.
This post takes a look at each new recruit, their possible impact, and what fans might see from these promising additions. If you want a full breakdown of every player, check out the original article.
Key Transfers Bolstering the Hawkeyes’ Lineup
The Hawkeyes have made some interesting moves in the transfer market, bringing in experienced players to fill important roles.
George – Ferris State Transfer
George stands at 6-foot-5 and weighs 315 pounds, making him a major presence on the offensive line. He’s earned all-conference and all-American honors in Division II, so he comes in with both experience and size at left tackle.
He’ll compete against Trevor Lauck and Jack Dotzler. George’s D2 experience might help as he gets used to the Big Ten’s speed and physicality.
Hecklinski – Wake Forest Transfer
Hecklinski reunites with former offensive coordinator Warren Ruggiero as he joins the Hawkeyes. He’s expected to compete for the QB3 spot, but with a strong arm and some playmaking instincts, he could push for more down the road.
Hudkins – Purdue Transfer
Hudkins played all 12 games as a true freshman at Purdue. He brings versatility and depth to Iowa’s safety group.
With three years of eligibility left, he could become a special teams mainstay and might even snag a spot in the two-deeps this fall.
Worrell – Boston College Transfer
Worrell is expected to step in as the starting longsnapper, coming over from Boston College. He’ll try to fill the shoes of Luke Elkin, who moved on to the Chicago Bears.
Worrell’s experience should help steady the Hawkeyes’ special teams.
Promising Freshmen Ready to Make an Impact
The 2025 class features several freshmen who could jump in and contribute sooner than later.
Iose Epenesa – Defensive Lineman
Epenesa is a five-star recruit with the potential to follow his older brother AJ’s path. He’s got a stockier build and a relentless motor.
Coaches expect him to compete for snaps on the interior defensive line, adding more talent to an already tough group.
Thomas Meyer – Tight End
Meyer, a four-star from Clear Lake, stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 225 pounds. He’s a versatile athlete known for his dual-threat skills.
With Iowa’s tight end room lacking depth behind the top three, Meyer could see the field early.
Johnson – Tight End
Johnson brings size and athleticism to the tight end spot, checking in at 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds. His basketball background and smooth route-running make him an intriguing addition.
Smith – Wide Receiver
Smith, a four-star receiver from West Aurora, stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 195 pounds. He started as a basketball prospect, but his athleticism and versatility caught Iowa’s eye.
He might need some time to develop, but his upside is hard to ignore.
Mason Woods – Athlete
Mason Woods, the son of Iowa special teams coordinator LeVar Woods, can play multiple positions. He’ll begin as a tight end, but his athleticism gives Iowa plenty of creative options on offense.
Underrated Gems and Preferred Walk-Ons
Iowa also picked up some under-the-radar recruits and preferred walk-ons who could turn into important pieces.
Fitzgibbon – Defensive Lineman
Fitzgibbon, a 6-foot-4, 290-pound lineman, was a priority for several Big Ten teams. He brings a high motor and solid technique.
He can play as a two-gap tackle or shift to a four-man front, which should help Iowa’s defensive line.
Jacob Wallace – Defensive Back
Wallace originally played basketball but switched to football, becoming a standout corner at DeMatha Catholic. With a +3 wingspan and a knack for finding the ball, he’s a strong open-field tackler.
He might be a fit for the CASH position down the line.
Drew MacPherson – Safety
MacPherson, son of former Northwestern defensive backs coach Matt MacPherson, is a coach’s kid with a sharp football IQ. He transitioned from running back to safety and understands the game well.
His ability to play in space makes him a nice addition to the secondary.
Ryan Fitzgerald – Quarterback
Ryan Fitzgerald, son of former Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald, joins as a preferred walk-on. At 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, he’s got the frame and potential to develop into a reliable quarterback.
Braeden Jackson – Running Back
Braeden Jackson, whose dad is former NFL running back Fred Jackson, is a dynamic talent. He racked up 1,397 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns in high school.
His speed and versatility could give Iowa’s running back room a nice boost.
Dylan Stecker – Wide Receiver
Stecker, a preferred walk-on from Spirit Lake, stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 205 pounds. He’s got good athleticism and versatility.
Stecker could climb the depth chart and become a key contributor if things break his way.
Rayce Heitman – Defensive Back
Heitman, from Williamsburg, brings size and the ability to play in space to the safety position. His disciplined, strong play could make him valuable on special teams and a reliable option at safety.
Will Lockhart – Defensive Lineman
Will Lockhart just joined the 2025 class. He stands 6-foot-4 and weighs about 240 pounds.
He’s a defensive lineman with a lot of raw potential. Iowa coaches probably see him as a bit of a project, but honestly, Lockhart’s upside feels worth the gamble.
The Hawkeyes are gearing up for the new season. These transfers and freshmen could really help with depth and overall competitiveness.
If you’re looking for more analysis or want updates on Iowa football, check out the original article.
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