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247sports.com:article · DAVID EICKHOLT

Aug 30
Iowa Football: Five Breakout Candidates For 2026 Season
Summary
- South Dakota transfer Bryce Hawthorne is positioned for a larger interior-line role after Iowa's offseason turnover. His leverage and violent hands can command double teams, but consistency is the remaining question. - Jacob Wallace has won the starting CASH role. His speed, physicality and recognition near the line should make him central to both run fits and underneath coverage. - Elon transfer Kahmari Brown brings unusual pass-rush athleticism but remains in a crowded edge competition with Iose Epenesa, Drew Campbell and Kenneth Merriweather; his run-edge discipline will determine his snap share. - Tony Diaz has generated sustained receiver buzz for downfield speed, route fluidity and willingness to block, supporting staff optimism that this is Iowa's best receiver room in several years. - Nathan McNeil is pushing for the No. 3 running-back role behind Kamari Moulton and LJ Phillips; his pass-game utility gives him a path to meaningful rotational touches despite a four-back room.

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Teams: Iowa

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