Iowa's Offensive Line: Meet the New Starters

Two young linemen step up to lead the Hawkeyes' offensive front in 2026

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:19am

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A cubist-style painting depicting an Iowa offensive line blocking play, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette.Iowa's offensive line will feature new starters in 2026, with the unit's ability to gel and dominate in the trenches key to the team's success.Ottumwa Today

The Iowa Hawkeyes football team is set to feature two new starters on the offensive line this upcoming season. After losing key veterans to graduation, the program has turned to a pair of young, promising players to anchor the trenches and protect the team's quarterback. Coaches and fans are eager to see how these new linemen perform and whether they can help the Hawkeyes maintain their reputation for having one of the Big Ten's most formidable offensive fronts.

Why it matters

The offensive line is often the unsung hero of a successful college football team, and Iowa has long been known for developing dominant units up front. With two new starters stepping into key roles, there are questions about whether the Hawkeyes can continue that tradition and provide the necessary protection and run-blocking for their offense to thrive.

The details

Iowa is replacing its starting left tackle and right guard from last season's squad. In their place, the Hawkeyes will turn to redshirt sophomore Ethan Becker and redshirt junior Liam O'Connell. Becker, a highly touted recruit, has been praised by coaches for his quick feet and technical prowess, while O'Connell brings valuable experience after serving as a reserve the past two years.

  • The Hawkeyes open their 2026 season on September 5th against rival Iowa State.
  • Becker and O'Connell are expected to start in Iowa's season opener.

The players

Ethan Becker

A redshirt sophomore offensive tackle who will take over as Iowa's new starting left tackle.

Liam O'Connell

A redshirt junior offensive guard who will step into the Hawkeyes' starting right guard position.

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What they’re saying

“Ethan and Liam have really stepped up this offseason and earned their spots on the starting offensive line. We're excited to see what they can do to help lead our offense.”

— Kirk Ferentz, Head Coach, Iowa Hawkeyes

“This is the opportunity I've been working for. I can't wait to get out there and prove myself against some of the best defensive linemen in the country.”

— Liam O'Connell, Starting Right Guard, Iowa Hawkeyes

What’s next

The Hawkeyes will hold their annual spring game on April 22nd, giving fans a first look at the new-look offensive line in action.

The takeaway

Iowa's ability to seamlessly replace key offensive line starters will be crucial to the team's success in 2026. If Becker and O'Connell can step up and perform at a high level, the Hawkeyes should remain a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten.