Eight University of Iowa football players have been recognized with Phil Steele preseason honors, as announced by the college football publication. Five players received preseason All-America recognition, while eight were named to the preseason All-Big Ten teams.
Senior offensive tackle Gennings Dunker, senior defensive tackle Aaron Graves, and senior return specialist Kaden Wetjen were selected as second-team All-Americans. Senior center Logan Jones was named a third-team All-American, and sophomore punter Rhys Dakin was chosen for the fourth team.
In addition to their national accolades, several Hawkeyes were acknowledged at the conference level. Senior offensive guard Beau Stephens and senior kicker Drew Stevens earned spots on the second-team all-conference list, while senior defensive end Ethan Hurkett was a third-team selection.
Logan Jones started 12 games last season and was previously a first-team all-conference pick. “Jones anchored the Hawkeye offensive line that allowed just 17 sacks,” according to the announcement. He also helped Iowa achieve its highest rushing yardage since 2002.
Gennings Dunker played in 11 games last year and contributed significantly to an offensive line that was recognized as a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award. Aaron Graves recorded notable statistics including three forced fumbles which led the Big Ten last season.
Kaden Wetjen returns after leading the nation in combined kick return yards in 2024. “Wetjen’s 1,055 combined kick return yards in 2024 led the country by a wide margin,” stated the release. Rhys Dakin averaged over 44 yards per punt last season, earning him freshman All-America honors from another organization.
Ethan Hurkett led his team’s defensive linemen with tackles and tackles for loss during his fifth-year campaign in 2024. Beau Stephens contributed to an offense that ranked third in rushing within their conference.
Drew Stevens achieved two-time all-conference status after successfully converting field goals throughout his career at Iowa. His performance included tying records for field goals made in single games both at school and stadium levels.
The upcoming season will begin on August 30 when Iowa hosts UAlbany at Kinnick Stadium.
