Iowa Signing Day Tracker: 2026 Early Signees

Follow along as the Iowa Hawkeyes build their 2026 recruiting class during the Early Signing Period. This real-time tracker features every official signee, individual breakdowns, position group insights, and how the class stacks up nationally.

Full List of 2026 Early Signees

Name	Position	Height/Weight	High School	Hometown	Star Rating(247/Rival/ESPN)	Status
Carson Nielsen	OT	6'7"/275	Waterloo West High School	Waterloo, IA	4/4/4	Early Signee
Hudson Parliament	IOL	6'4"/320	Brandon Valley High School	Brandon, SD	3/4/3	Early Signee
Gene Riordan	IOL	6'4"/285	Hinsdale Central High School	Hinsdale, IL	4/4/3	Early Signee
Luke Brewer	TE	6'5"/225	Norwalk High School	Norwalk, IA	3/3/3	Early Signee
Marcello Vitti	CB/CASH	6'0"/190	Divine Child High School	Detroit, MI	4/3/3	Early Enrollee
Colin Whitters	OL	6'4"/300	Iowa City West High School	Iowa City, IA	3/3/3	Early Signee
Brody Schaffer	WR	6'1"/190	Winneconne High School	Winneconne, WI	3/3/3	Early Signee
Darion Jones	CB	6'1"/170	Omaha North High School	Omaha, NE	4/3/3	Early Signee
Ronnie Hill	CB	6'1"/183	Sterling Heights High School	Sterling Heights, MI	3/3/3	Early Signee
Eli Robbins	WR	6'0"/190	Norwalk High School	Norwalk, IA	Not Rated	Early Signee
Owen Linder	OT	6'5"/250	Chanhassen High School	Chanhassen, MN	3/3/3	Early Signee
Diondre Smith	WR	5'11"/175	Duncan U. Fletcher	Neptune Beach, FL	3/3/3	Early Signee
Sawyer Jezierski	DL	6'4"/275	Edina High School	Minneapolis, MN	3/3/3	Early Signee
Billy Weivoda	LB	6'2"/210	Milton High School	Milton, GA	3/3/3	Early Signee
Jack Janda	TE	6'6"/245	Detroit Catholic Central	Detroit, MI	3/3/3	Early Signee
Xavier Stinson	WR	6'2"/185	Vero Beach High School	Port Saint Lucie, FL	3/3/4	Early Signee
Julian Manson	OLB	6'2"/213	Iowa City West High School	Iowa City, IA	4/4/4	Early Signee
Kasen Thomas	LB	6'2"/217	Bishop Heelan Catholic	Sioux City, IA	4/4/3	Early Signee
Tradon Bessinger	QB	6'4.5"/210	Davis High School	Kaysville, UT	4/4/4	Early Signee
Isaiah Oliver	ATH	6'0"/195	Waukee High School	Waukee, IA	Not Rated	Early Signee
David Fason	DL	6'2"/253	Prairie High School	Cedar Rapids, IA	Not Rated	Early Signee
Noah Daniel	ATH	6'0"/190	Fort Dodge High School	Fort Dodge	Not Rated	Early Signee

Position-by-Position Breakdown

The Iowa 2026 early signing class bolsters the offensive line and defensive back positions, with a significant focus on developing hybrid defensive roles and skill positions. The offensive line group is deep with multiple early signees, prioritizing size and athleticism to maintain Iowa’s historic strength in trench play.

The defensive backfield features versatile hybrid players, emphasizing speed, scheme adaptability, and coverage versatility. The running back and edge rusher positions haven't received much reinforcements yet, and may be addressed in later signings or through internal development.

Offensive Line (OL, OT, IOL)

The class features big-bodied linemen like Carson Nielsen (6’7”, 275 lbs) and Hudson Parliament (6’4”, 320 lbs), who are set to compete for starting roles. Gene Riordan and Colin Whitters add versatility inside, providing depth. Owen Linder is a developmental prospect to build for the future.

Quarterback (QB)

Tradon Bessinger, a four-star dual-threat QB, is a potential early-impact recruit who fits Iowa’s evolving system under Tim Lester, offering both arm talent and mobility. He is likely to take over Mark Gronowski at the QB mantle.

Wide Receiver (WR) and Tight End (TE)

The group has both experience and potential growth, with Brody Schaffer and Eli Robbins providing immediate depth and versatility at WR. At the same time, Luke Brewer brings size and skill at TE, fulfilling Iowa’s need for reliable pass-catching tight ends who can also block.

Defensive Backfield (CB, CASH)

Iowa's focus was on athleticism and hybrid versatility in the 2026 recruiting class. Players like Marcello Vitti and Darion Jones are expected to compete early for roles in coverage schemes. Ronnie Hill adds physicality and long-term upside.

Top Commitments in the Class and Recruiting Stories

Carson Nielsen (OT): Top lineman with four-star ratings and offers from multiple Power Five programs.
Tradon Bessinger (QB): Flipped from Boise State, elevating Iowa’s quarterback recruiting profile with a four-star prospect.
Marcello Vitti (CB/CASH): Early enrollee known for versatility and playmaking, choosing Iowa over major programs like Michigan.
Darion Jones (CB): Nebraska’s No. 2 prospect choosing Iowa over in-state rival Nebraska.
Hudson Parliament (IOL): Strong South Dakota recruit with high strength, adding size and power to the interior line.
Jack Janda (DL): Wisconsin flip who adds late class star power on defense.

Projected Impact within Iowa’s Scheme

The class primarily strengthens Iowa’s dominant offensive line and physical, versatile defensive backs. The offensive recruits bring a balance of size, technique, and athleticism necessary to maintain the power-run focus and pro-style offense.

Defensive backs and hybrid players like Vitti fit well with Phil Parker’s complex scheme. Early enrollees include several players who could contribute in 2026, while others may redshirt to develop further.

Eli Robbins, WR – Norwalk High School, IA

Height/Weight: 6'0", 190 lbs

Star Rating: Not Rated (247Sports, Rivals, ESPN), Position Rank: N/A

Notable Offers: Army, Air Force, North Dakota State

Strengths: Elite speed (4.44 40-yard dash), versatility as WR/DB.

System fit: Two-way athlete likely to suit up as a defensive back for Iowa with special teams.

Enrollment status: Signed (Preferred Walk-On)

Luke Brewer, TE – Norwalk High School, IA

Height/Weight: 6'5", 225 lbs

Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), ★★★ (Rivals), ★★★ (ESPN), Position Rank: No. 20 TE nationally

Notable Offers: Miami, Tennessee, Iowa State, Notre Dame

Strengths: Elite athleticism and body control as a pure receiver with a large catch radius.

System fit: Perfect Iowa TEU prototype with receiving skills and blocking frame like Erick All and Sam LaPorta.

Enrollment status: Signed

Darion Jones, CB – Omaha North High School, NE

Height/Weight: 6'1", 170 lbs

Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports), ★★★ (Rivals), ★★★ (ESPN), Position Rank: No. 34 CB nationally

Notable Offers: Nebraska, Iowa State, Kansas State, Minnesota

Strengths: Rangy corner with elite ball skills, two-way versatility.

System fit: Tall CB fits Phil Parker's modern secondary profile like Terry Locke or Sebastian Castro.

Enrollment status: Signed

Owen Linder, OT – Chanhassen High School, MN

Height/Weight: 6'5", 250 lbs

Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), ★★★ (Rivals), ★★★ (ESPN), Position Rank: Minnesota's 3rd-ranked prospect 2026

Notable Offers: Kansas State, Illinois, Kansas, and Minnesota

Strengths: Long frame with solid athleticism and room to add mass, promising developmental tackle.

System fit: Fits Iowa’s offensive line development model for long-term growth and mobility.

Enrollment status: Signed

Ronnie Hill, Safety – Sterling Heights Stevenson, Michigan

Height/Weight: 6'1", 183 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 66
Notable Offers: Miami (OH), Eastern Michigan, Northern Illinois
Strengths: Long frame with hard-hitting style and coverage versatility.
System Fit: Ideal fit for Iowa's Phil Parker secondary system.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Billy Weivoda, Linebacker – Milton, Georgia

Height/Weight: 6'2", 205 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 75
Notable Offers: Vanderbilt, Memphis, Marshall
Strengths: Tough, versatile athlete with excellent special teams production and blocked punts.
System Fit: Athletic linebacker prospect who excels in Iowa's defensive system under Phil Parker.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Jack Janda, Defensive Line – Detroit Catholic Central, Michigan

Height/Weight: 6'6", 245 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 52
Notable Offers: Wisconsin, Michigan State, Stanford, Michigan
Strengths: Rare size and athleticism, a tough interior presence.
System Fit: Versatile edge defender fits perfectly into Kelvin Bell's defensive line system at Iowa.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Xavier Stinson, Wide Receiver – Vero Beach, Florida

Height/Weight: 6'2", 185 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 86
Notable Offers: UCLA, Illinois, Wisconsin, NC State
Strengths: Productive, smooth outside target with downfield ball-tracking and multi-sport speed.
System Fit: Vertical outside receiver who can stretch the field in Iowa’s play-action passing game.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Colin Whitters, Offensive Lineman – Iowa City West, Iowa

Height/Weight: 6'4", 300 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 37
Notable Offers: Kansas State, Wisconsin, Iowa State
Strengths: Multi-positional interior lineman with quick feet, versatility and high football IQ.
System Fit: Perfect developmental fit for George Barnett's offensive line system.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Hudson Parliament, Offensive Lineman – Brandon Valley, South Dakota

Height/Weight: 6'4", 320 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports Composite), Position Rank: 30
Notable Offers: Nebraska, Iowa State, Kansas State, Minnesota
Strengths: Powerful mauler with 97 pancake blocks, exceptional strength, and elite movement for frame.
System Fit: State powerlifting champion and two-time All-State selection fits perfectly into George Barnett's developmental lineman program.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Gene Riordan, Offensive Lineman – Hinsdale Central, Illinois

Height/Weight: 6'5", 275 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports Composite), Position Rank: 23
Notable Offers: Auburn, Penn State, Oklahoma, Illinois, Georgia Tech, Minnesota, Kansas State
Strengths: Powerful frame with exceptional length, functional strength, and elite movement for size at the interior lineman position.
System Fit: Perfect prospect for George Barnett's NFL pipeline system, showing high-ceiling potential as a versatile mauler.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Sawyer Jezierski, Defensive Line – Edina, Minnesota

Height/Weight: 6'3", 265 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 113
Notable Offers: Boston College, Kansas State, Washington State, Wyoming
Strengths: Powerful defensive tackle frame with functional strength and relentless motor on the interior line.
System Fit: Developmental defensive line prospect who thrives in Kelvin Bell's defensive system with room to add mass.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Brody Schaffer, Wide Receiver – Winneconne, Wisconsin

Height/Weight: 6'1", 190 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 78
Notable Offers: Nebraska, Iowa State, Kansas State, Minnesota
Strengths: Athletic receiver with strong hands, route-running polish, and Nike Next Ones recognition.
System Fit: Slot receiver prospect who fits Iowa's pro-style passing game with special teams upside.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Carson Nielsen, Offensive Tackle – Waterloo West, Iowa

Height/Weight: 6'7", 275 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 25
Notable Offers: Tennessee, Penn State, Iowa State, Kansas State, Wisconsin
Strengths: Long athletic tackle with quick feet, balance, and strong pass protection anchor.
System Fit: In-state anchor for George Barnett's offensive line developmental system.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Julian Manson, Linebacker – Iowa City West, Iowa

Height/Weight: 6'2", 213 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports Composite), Position Rank: 24
Notable Offers: None
Strengths: Long, smooth linebacker with excellent movement and football IQ.
System Fit: High-upside in-state prospect fits perfectly in Iowa's linebacker development system.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Diondre Smith, Wide Receiver – Duncan U. Fletcher, Neptune Beach, Florida

Height/Weight: 5'11", 175 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 185
Notable Offers: Miami (FL), Pitt, UCF, Indiana, Michigan State
Strengths: Athletic receiver with strong hands, polished route runner, and kick return threat.
System Fit: Slot receiver prospect well-suited for Iowa’s pro-style offense and special teams.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Kasen Thomas, Linebacker – Bishop Heelan Catholic, Sioux City, Iowa

Height/Weight: 6'2", 217 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: No. 23
Notable Offers: Nebraska, Iowa State, Arizona, Michigan
Strengths: Athletic playmaker with quickness and relentless pursuit.
System Fit: In-state two-way star perfect for Iowa's versatile linebacker development under LeVar Woods.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Marcello Vitti, Defensive Back – Divine Child, Michigan

Height/Weight: 6'0", 190 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: No. 21
Notable Offers: Michigan, Michigan State, Penn State, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Auburn
Strengths: Explosive athlete with 76 tackles, 10 TFLs, and 5 forced fumbles.
System Fit: Perfect CASH position fit for Phil Parker's hybrid secondary with coverage and tackling prowess.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Tradon Bessinger, Quarterback – Davis, Utah

Height/Weight: 6'4.5", 210 lbs
Star Rating: ★★★★ (247Sports), Position Rank: 12
Notable Offers: Boise State, BYU, UCLA
Strengths: Pro-style pocket passer with 10,908 career yards, 127 TDs, and elite arm talent.
System Fit: Big Ten-ready signal-caller perfect for Tim Lester's quarterback development system.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Isaiah Oliver, ATH – Waukee Northwest, Iowa

Height/Weight: 6'0", 195 lbs
Star Rating: Not rated, Unranked
Notable Offers: Army, North Dakota, North Dakota State, Northern Iowa
Strengths: Versatile athlete and standout basketball player with solid wide receiver skills.
System Fit: Legacy recruit with a strong work ethic fitting Iowa’s pro-style passing system.
Enrollment Status: Signed

David Fason, Defensive Line – Prairie, Iowa

Height/Weight: 6'2", 253 lbs
Star Rating: Not rated, Unranked
Notable Offers: Northern Iowa
Strengths: Explosive penetrator with elite TFLs, sacks production, and pursuit speed.
System Fit: Versatile in-state defender perfect for Kelvin Bell's developmental DL room.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Noah Daniel, ATH – Fort Dodge, Iowa

Height/Weight: 6'0", 190 lbs
Star Rating: Not Rated, Unranked
Notable Offers: Central Michigan, North Dakota, North Dakota State, South Dakota
Strengths: Versatile defensive back.
System Fit: In-state athlete fitting well into Iowa’s defensive backfield with special teams upside.
Enrollment Status: Signed

Recruiting Surprises, Flips & Misses

Signing Day Surprises & Late Flips

Jack Janda (DL) flips from Wisconsin: Committed to Wisconsin as a tight end but flipped to Iowa on December 2, 2025 (the day before early signing).

Xavier Stinson (WR) UCLA decommitment: Decommitted from UCLA after wide receivers coach Sean Foster's firing, quickly committed to Iowa.

Impactful Decommitments

Cash Herrera (QB): Early four-star QB commitment decommitted in summer 2025, opening the door for Tradon Bessinger.

Unfilled Positions & Notable Targets Elsewhere

Running Back (RB): No RBs in early signing class despite need behind current depth. Targeted Iowa prospects, such as Marion's Jirehl Brock, went unaddressed.

Edge/Outside Linebacker: Light on pure EDGE rushers. Kasen Thomas (LB) provides some versatility, but a specialist is missing.

Historical Context & Class Ranking

Iowa's 2026 recruiting class ranks #22 nationally according to 247Sports, #24 on Rivals, and #27 on On3. Within the Big Ten Conference, the Hawkeyes sit at #8, trailing powerhouses like Ohio State (#1), Oregon (#2), Michigan (#5), and Penn State (#6), but ahead of programs like Nebraska, Illinois, and Maryland.

Recruiting Year	National Rank (247Sports)	Big Ten Rank	Average Player Rating	Four-Star Recruits	Total Signees
2026	#22	#8	88.4	6	18
2025	#32	#10	87.2	3	22
2024	#28	#9	87.8	4	24
2023	#25	#7	88.1	5	23
2022	#19	#6	88.7	7	21

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