Nine Iowa Hawkeyes Invited to NFL Combine

The Hawkeyes will have a record number of players participating in the annual pre-draft event.

Feb. 11, 2026 at 7:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Iowa football program will be well represented at the upcoming NFL Combine, with a record 9 players invited to participate in the annual pre-draft event. The list includes offensive linemen, wide receivers, defensive players, and a placekicker, showcasing the depth of talent on the Hawkeyes roster.

Why it matters

Iowa has a strong history of producing NFL talent under head coach Kirk Ferentz, with 94 players drafted during his tenure, including 13 first-rounders. This year's large contingent at the Combine highlights the program's continued ability to develop pro-caliber players across multiple positions.

The details

The 9 Hawkeyes invited to the NFL Combine are: offensive linemen Logan Jones, Gennings Dunker, and Beau Stephens; wide receiver and return specialist Kaden Wetjen; defensive lineman Max Llewellyn, linebacker Karson Sharar, safety Xavier Nwankpa, and cornerback T.J. Hall; and placekicker Drew Stevens. Notably absent from the list were quarterback Mark Gronowski, who was recently named offensive MVP of the East-West Shrine Game, and defensive tackle Aaron Graves.

  • The NFL Combine will take place later this month in Indianapolis.
  • The annual NFL Draft will be held in Green Bay, Wisconsin from April 23-25, 2026.
  • Iowa will hold their Pro Day sometime in late March 2026.

The players

Kirk Ferentz

The head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes football team, who has overseen the development of 94 NFL draft picks during his tenure.

Logan Jones

An offensive lineman for the Iowa Hawkeyes who has been invited to the NFL Combine.

Gennings Dunker

An offensive lineman for the Iowa Hawkeyes who has been invited to the NFL Combine.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When the NFL Combine takes place beginning later this month in Indianapolis, the Iowa football team will be well represented at the annual event.”

— Tom Kakert, Author

“Surprisingly left off the invite list this year was quarterback Mark Gronowski, who was recently named offensive MVP of the East-West Shrine game last month.”

— Tom Kakert, Author

What’s next

The annual NFL Draft will be taking place in Green Bay, Wisconsin starting April 23rd and ending on April 25th. Iowa will be holding their Pro Day sometime in late March.

The takeaway

Iowa's strong representation at the NFL Combine underscores the program's ability to develop top-tier talent across multiple positions, continuing a trend that has seen the Hawkeyes produce 94 draft picks under head coach Kirk Ferentz. This year's group showcases the depth and versatility of the roster, as the Hawkeyes look to continue their pipeline of sending players to the professional ranks.