The pipeline from Iowa City to the NFL has been strong under Head Coach Kirk Ferentz. Since Ferentz took over as head coach in 1999, NFL organizations have drafted over 90 Hawkeyes, and many more have joined via free agency.
During the 2025 NFL Draft, Iowa had five players drafted, including Kaleb Johnson (Rd. 3, Pick 87), Yahya Black (Rd. 5, Pick 164), Mason Richman (Rd. 7, Pick 234), Connor Colby (Rd. 7, Pick 249), and Luke Lachey (Rd. 7, pick 255).
The Iowa Football program is known for producing NFL-ready prospects that enter the league with a leg up on other players.