BREAKOUT? Iowa Hawkeyes Top 10 Players to WATCH This Spring Open Practice — Tony Diaz & Iose Epenesa Lead
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This episode of Locked On Hawkeyes previews the upcoming spring open practice with a focus on the top 10 players to watch as Iowa football prepares for the 2026 season. Host Trent Condon highlights key contributors across offense, defense, and special teams, emphasizing players who could define the team's success. Notable names include running back LJ Phillips, wide receiver Tony Diaz, defensive lineman Yose Epinesa, center Cade Pieper, linebacker Cam Buffington, defensive tackle Bryce Hawthorne, tight end DJ Vonami, safety/DB Zach Lutmer, and the quarterback battle between Hank Brown and Jeremy Heklinski. The episode also covers transfer portal updates, including Alvaro Fulgaris' move to Louisville and the acquisition of 7'3 center Andrew McKeever from St. Mary's, which fans are viewing as a strategic trade. On the women’s side, Iowa adds transfers Amari Whiting and McKenna Welichko, while still seeking depth. The podcast closes with a call to join the Everydayer Club for ad-free content and exclusive access.
Tony Diaz and Jeremy Heklinski are among the most anticipated players to watch at spring practice due to their high-profile arrivals and potential impact.
The defensive line, especially the interior tackles, remains a critical question mark, with Yose Epinesa and Bryce Hawthorne expected to step up.
Andrew McKeever’s arrival from St. Mary’s is seen as a major upgrade at center, offering size and rebounding prowess.
The quarterback competition between Hank Brown and Jeremy Heklinski will be a key storyline, with Heklinski favored for his athleticism and playmaking ability.
The transfer portal has yielded significant upgrades, particularly with McKeever and Whiting, though depth remains a challenge for the women’s team.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction & Club Announcement
Hosts introduce the Locked On Hawkeyes podcast and promote the Everydayer Club, offering ad-free episodes and a members-only Discord group.
Top 10 Players: Running Backs & Wide Receivers
“If we just get that glimpse, please, Kirk. I mean, fingers crossed here. I'm begging you. Just give us a little bit, maybe even for a couple drills.”
Defensive Line & Offensive Line Focus
“If he plays at a high level... Iowa's got a chance to have a special season.”
Linebackers, Tight Ends & Defensive Backs
Cam Buffington is praised as a rising linebacker, DJ Vonami as a breakout tight end, and Zach Lutmer as a versatile defensive back with high upside.
Quarterback Battle & Final Top 10
“I want to see the guy that has the ability to move around a little bit more, has some more athleticism to him.”
“Think of it that way. What would you rather have? Another power forward, a guy that wasn't great when he had to play center... Or a seven foot three guy that had the best offensive rebounding rate in the country?”
“If we just get that glimpse, please, Kirk. I mean, fingers crossed here. I'm begging you. Just give us a little bit, maybe even for a couple drills.”
“You talk about a guy that has been all over the social media clips that Iowa football has been up. It has been Tony Diaz making play after play after play.”
Hosts
Iowa Hawkeyes
other
Trent Condon
person
Tony Diaz
person
Yose Epinesa
person
Cade Pieper
person
Bryce Hawthorne
person
Cam Buffington
person
Hank Brown
person
Jeremy Heklinski
person
Alvaro Fulgaris
person
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