Alright, Hawkeye fans! Let's dive deep into the Iowa Hawkeyes football depth chart for the upcoming 2024 season. We're going to break down each position, analyze the key players, and see where the team stands heading into what promises to be an exciting year. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or just getting into college football, this is your one-stop shop for understanding the Hawkeyes' roster.

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is always under the spotlight, and for Iowa, it's no different. All eyes are on who will be leading the offense this season. The Hawkeyes have a mix of experienced players and fresh talent vying for the starting role. The quarterback's performance is going to be critical for Iowa's success, so let's break down the contenders and what they bring to the table.

Starter: Cade McNamara

Cade McNamara is the name everyone's talking about. After transferring to Iowa, there's a lot of buzz around his potential to transform the Hawkeye offense. McNamara brings a wealth of experience from his time at Michigan, where he demonstrated poise and the ability to make crucial throws. His arm talent and decision-making skills are expected to provide a significant boost to Iowa's passing game, which has struggled in recent years. Fans are eager to see if he can live up to the hype and become the consistent, reliable quarterback the Hawkeyes have been searching for. McNamara's leadership will also be key in rallying the team and setting the tone for the offense.

Backup: Deacon Hill

Deacon Hill is the primary backup, and he's shown flashes of potential. While he may not have the same level of experience as McNamara, Hill has a strong arm and a good understanding of the offense. He needs to improve his consistency and decision-making, but he represents a solid option if McNamara were to go down. Hill's development will be crucial for Iowa's depth at the quarterback position. The coaching staff will be looking for him to take significant strides during practice and show that he can be relied upon in game situations.

Other Contenders

Beyond McNamara and Hill, there are other quarterbacks on the roster who are looking to make an impact. These players may not be in contention for the starting job right away, but they provide valuable depth and competition during practice. Keep an eye on these guys as potential future contributors. They'll be working hard to improve their skills and demonstrate their readiness to step in if needed. Quarterback depth is essential for any successful team, and these players help ensure that Iowa has options at the position.

Running Backs

The Hawkeyes' ground game is a staple of their offensive identity. With a history of producing tough, reliable running backs, this year's group looks to continue that tradition. A strong running game will be essential for taking pressure off the quarterback and controlling the clock. Let's break down the running back depth chart and see who will be carrying the load this season.

Starter: Leshon Williams

Leshon Williams is expected to lead the way in the running game. He has shown flashes of brilliance in the past, and this season could be his opportunity to become a star. Williams possesses a combination of power and speed, making him a threat to break off long runs. His ability to run between the tackles and bounce outside makes him a versatile weapon for the Hawkeye offense. The coaching staff will be looking for him to be a consistent force and a reliable option in critical situations. If Williams can stay healthy and productive, he could be one of the top running backs in the Big Ten.

Backup: Kaleb Johnson

Kaleb Johnson will be a key backup and change-of-pace back. Johnson brings a different style to the running game, with more emphasis on speed and agility. He's a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and he can be a valuable asset in passing situations. Johnson's role will likely be to provide a spark off the bench and exploit mismatches against opposing defenses. The coaching staff will be looking for ways to get him involved in the offense and maximize his impact. He has the potential to be a game-changer for the Hawkeyes.

Fullback: Monte Pottebaum

Monte Pottebaum is the Hawkeyes' fullback, a position that's highly valued in Iowa's offense. Pottebaum is a hard-nosed, physical player who excels at blocking and short-yardage situations. His role is to clear the way for the running backs and provide added protection for the quarterback. Pottebaum's contributions may not always show up in the stat sheet, but he's an integral part of Iowa's offensive success. He brings toughness and leadership to the team.

Wide Receivers

Iowa's wide receiver corps has been looking to elevate its game. With new talent and experienced players, the Hawkeyes are hoping to create a more dynamic passing attack. The wide receivers will need to step up and make plays to help the offense reach its full potential. Let's take a look at the depth chart and see who will be catching passes this season.

Starters: Nico Ragaini, Diante Vines

Nico Ragaini and Diante Vines are the projected starters at wide receiver. Ragaini brings experience and reliability to the position, while Vines offers explosive playmaking ability. Ragaini is a sure-handed receiver who excels at running routes and making contested catches. Vines has the speed to stretch the field and the athleticism to make highlight-reel plays. Together, they form a solid duo that the Hawkeyes will rely on to move the chains and score touchdowns. Their chemistry with the quarterback will be crucial for the success of the passing game.

Key Contributors: Seth Anderson, Jarriett Buie

Seth Anderson and Jarriett Buie are expected to be key contributors in the receiving corps. They bring depth and versatility to the position, and they'll be looking to make an impact whenever their number is called. Anderson is a reliable target with good hands, while Buie possesses the speed to get open deep. The coaching staff will be looking for ways to get them involved in the offense and maximize their talents. They have the potential to be valuable assets for the Hawkeyes.

Tight Ends

The tight end position is a tradition at Iowa, and this year's group is looking to continue that legacy. The Hawkeyes have a talented group of tight ends who can contribute as both blockers and pass-catchers. The tight ends will be crucial for the success of the offense, providing a reliable target for the quarterback and helping to open up running lanes. Let's take a look at the depth chart and see who will be making plays at tight end this season.

Starter: Luke Lachey

Luke Lachey is the projected starter at tight end. He has the potential to be a dominant player at the position, with a combination of size, strength, and athleticism. Lachey is a reliable blocker and a dangerous receiver, making him a valuable asset for the Hawkeye offense. The coaching staff will be looking for him to be a leader on the field and a consistent performer in all aspects of the game. He has the potential to be an All-Big Ten player and a future NFL draft pick.

Backup: Addison Ostrenga

Addison Ostrenga will be the primary backup at tight end. He's a versatile player who can contribute as both a blocker and a receiver. Ostrenga brings toughness and physicality to the position, and he's always willing to do the dirty work. The coaching staff will be looking for him to provide valuable depth and contribute in a variety of ways. He has the potential to be a key contributor for the Hawkeyes.

Offensive Line

The offensive line is the engine of the Iowa offense. A strong and cohesive offensive line is essential for protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes. The Hawkeyes have a mix of experienced players and young talent on the offensive line, and they'll be looking to establish themselves as one of the top units in the Big Ten. Let's take a look at the projected starters and key contributors on the offensive line.

Projected Starters

The projected starters on the offensive line include a mix of veterans and up-and-coming players. These guys will be responsible for protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes for the running backs. Their ability to work together as a unit will be crucial for the success of the offense. The coaching staff will be looking for them to be physical, disciplined, and consistent in their performance. They have the potential to be a dominant force in the Big Ten.

• Left Tackle: Mason Richman
• Left Guard: Nick DeJong
• Center: Logan Jones
• Right Guard: Connor Colby
• Right Tackle: Gennings Dunker

Defensive Line

Iowa's defensive line is known for its toughness and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. This year's group is looking to continue that tradition. The defensive line will need to pressure the quarterback and stop the run to give the Hawkeyes' defense an edge. Let's take a look at the projected starters and key contributors on the defensive line.

Projected Starters

The projected starters on the defensive line include a mix of experienced players and rising stars. These guys will be responsible for creating havoc in the backfield and shutting down the run. Their ability to work together as a unit will be crucial for the success of the defense. The coaching staff will be looking for them to be aggressive, disciplined, and relentless in their pursuit of the ball.

• Defensive End: Deontae Craig
• Defensive Tackle: Yahya Black
• Defensive Tackle: Logan Lee
• Defensive End: Ethan Hurkett

Linebackers

The linebacker corps is the heart and soul of the Iowa defense. This year's group is looking to continue that tradition. The linebackers will need to make tackles, cover receivers, and provide leadership on the field. Let's take a look at the projected starters and key contributors at linebacker.

Projected Starters

The projected starters at linebacker include a mix of experienced players and rising stars. These guys will be responsible for making plays all over the field and leading the defense. Their ability to read plays, make tackles, and cover receivers will be crucial for the success of the defense. The coaching staff will be looking for them to be smart, physical, and instinctive in their play.

• Middle Linebacker: Jay Higgins
• Outside Linebacker: Nick Jackson
• Outside Linebacker: Jaden Harrell

Defensive Backs

Iowa's defensive backs are known for their coverage skills and ability to create turnovers. This year's group is looking to continue that tradition. The defensive backs will need to cover receivers, make interceptions, and provide support in the run game. Let's take a look at the projected starters and key contributors in the defensive backfield.

Projected Starters

The projected starters in the defensive backfield include a mix of experienced players and rising stars. These guys will be responsible for shutting down opposing passing attacks and creating turnovers. Their ability to cover receivers, make interceptions, and tackle in the open field will be crucial for the success of the defense. The coaching staff will be looking for them to be athletic, smart, and aggressive in their play.

• Cornerback: Jermari Harris
• Cornerback: Deshaun Lee
• Safety: Quinn Schulte
• Safety: Sebastian Castro

Special Teams

Special teams can often be the difference between winning and losing, and Iowa takes pride in its special teams units. This year's group is looking to continue that tradition. The specialists will need to be consistent and reliable in their performance. Let's take a look at the key players on special teams.

• Kicker: Drew Stevens
• Punter: Tory Taylor
• Long Snapper: Luke Elkin
• Kickoff/Punt Returner: Cooper DeJean

Final Thoughts

The Iowa Hawkeyes football depth chart is always subject to change based on performance and injuries. However, this breakdown provides a good overview of where the team stands heading into the 2024 season. With key players at every position, the Hawkeyes have the potential to be a force in the Big Ten. Keep an eye on these players as they battle for playing time and contribute to the team's success. Go Hawks!