Iowa Football Has the 'Freaks' But Does That Translate to Wins in 2026?

The on-field talent in college football is getting better at a rapidly accelerating rate.

Players are entering college more mature and developed than ever before, creating a much faster, more dynamic, and physical game. To keep up with that, teams have to have athletes who are more than just good at football.

They need athletes who are on a different level with size, strength, and speed. Those "freaks" can change games, and The Athletic's list of those players includes a trio of Iowa Hawkeyes aiming to translate their talents into wins.

Iowa football has the freak athletes

Every year, the Hawkeyes boast a few players who stand above the rest. Some are stronger than the rest and can rely on that, while others bring a combination of speed and agility that you just can't coach.

This year's list of "Freaks" sees three Hawkeyes. Highly-touted offensive lineman Kade Pieper comes in all the way at No. 8 for his rare speed as a lineman paired with exceptional strength.

Also on the list, as no surprise, is defensive back Zach Lutmer. The agility Lutmer has shown has him playing all over Phil Parker's defense and is among the top in the nation.

A surprising entry on this list, up at No. 27, is a newcomer, Kahmari Brown. The transfer from Elon is a bit raw, but the edge rusher has the traits to blossom into a sack specialist for Iowa.

Does this translate to success for the Iowa Hawkeyes?

That depends on what you define success as. Is it simply winning games? If that's the case, this trio is going to play its part there.

Kade Pieper will be steady across the offensive line, but he needs help and can't do it alone. The other two, Lutmer and Brown, could produce the largest impacts directly tied to winning ballgames.

On the back end, Zach Lutmer showed he can not just make the interception, but find the end zone, completely changing the complexion of games. As for Kahmari Brown, Iowa is seeking a pass-rushing specialist. If he turns the traits into production, he can unlock a new aspect of the Hawkeyes' defense.

If success is defined as development and getting to the next level, then success is undeniably true for the Hawkeyes.

Kade Pieper and Zach Lutmer are already being discussed as first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft. I'm not sure you can be more successful than that when turning athletic traits and strength into on-field football production.

Add us as a preferred source on Google