Iowa City Today

University of Iowa senior defensive tackle Aaron Graves has been named to the 2025 Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List. The Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation announced this recognition on Wednesday.

The watch list includes 42 college football defensive players known for their significant impact both on and off the field. The acronym IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, and Tenacity.

Graves played a crucial role in all 13 games at defensive tackle during the 2024 season. He recorded 33 tackles, including eight tackles for loss (six sacks), three forced fumbles, three pass break-ups, and two quarterback pressures. His three forced fumbles were the highest in the Big Ten.

Originally from Dayton, Iowa, Graves was named Big Ten Co-Defensive Player of the Week following his performance against Washington on October 12, 2024. In that game, he made five tackles with two sacks and forced a career-high two fumbles while breaking up a pass in Iowa's victory.

In addition to his on-field accomplishments last season, Graves received an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection by league coaches and media. He also earned Iowa’s team Hustle Award on defense. Off the field achievements include being named a second-team Academic All-American and an Academic All-Big Ten honoree in 2024. He graduated with highest distinction in exercise science last summer.

Throughout his time at college, Graves contributed volunteer hours at organizations such as Filter of Hope, Safe Haven Animal Shelter, Athletes in Action, Day of Caring, and CommUnity Crisis Services & Food Bank.

Notably among previous winners is former Hawkeye linebacker Josey Jewell who won the award in 2017. James Morris was a finalist in 2013 while Desmond King (2016), Cooper DeJean (2023), and Jay Higgins (2024) were recent semifinalists.

Finalists for this year's award will be announced in December.

The Hawkeyes are set to begin their 2025 season on August 30 against UAlbany at Kinnick Stadium.