IOWA CITY, Iowa-- The Hawkeyes will be a heavy presence in the 2026 NFL Combine. On Wednesday, nine former Iowa players were invited by the NFL to participate in this year's combine. A combination of likely high draft picks along with guys that are looking to increase their stock as their big day approaches.
The nine Hawkeyes that will be included are:
Logan Jones
Beau Stephens
Gennings Dunker
Drew Stevens
Kaden Wetjen
Max Llewellyn
Karson Sharar
Xavier Nwankpa
TJ Hall
Two of the more notable players left off include quarterback Mark Gronowski and defensive tackle Aaron Graves. Gronowski is a bit of a surprise when you look at his career accolades. His 58 career wins makes him the winningest QB in NCAA history (all levels). He has career passing stats of 921-1,450 for 12,049 yards and 103 touchdowns with 27 interceptions and a long pass of 76 yards.
He was also one of the more dangerous quarterback runners. His career rushing stats include 515 carries for 2,312 yards and 53 touchdowns, with a long rush of 80 yards. Gronowski came to Iowa hoping to continue to change the narrative surrounding the offense and he helped steer them in the right direction.
Graves was a 26-game starter and one of the most respected leaders on the team. He was a constant defensive force in the trenches and put together a nice senior year including 37 tackles including 5 sacks, two pass breakups and an interception.
It's not a surprise to see three members of the Joe Moore Award winning offensive line get invited to the combine. Logan Jones was named the nation's best center while Beau Stephens is one of the most violent interior linemen in the country. Gennings Dunker has continued to make a name for himself and is willing to play tackle or guard at the next level.
"I am proud that this group was honored with the Joe Moore Award. The award celebrates teamwork and toughness – and those are two qualities that this entire group has in abundance," Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz said when they won the award. "As a unit, they have excelled under the leadership of Coach George Barnett. The players have challenged each other and improved every day. This is a group of veteran players who have set a standard for the entire team on and off the field. They are leaders as well as terrific players."
TJ Hall enjoyed a breakout senior year that has boosted his stock. Xavier Nwankpa's experience and upside should help him get a chance to breakout during the combine. Drew Stevens was one of the most successful kickers in Iowa history.
Linebacker Karson Sharar had a 2.5 sack bowl game along with consistent play throughout the season. Experience might work against him, but his hard-hitting ability could be intriguing for the right fit.
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine will take place from February 23 to March 2, 2026, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis,
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