Iowa Hawkeyes cornerback Deshaun Lee is expected to step into the No. 1 outside cornerback role after TJ Hall’s departure to the NFL. Lee had a solid junior campaign, recording career highs of two interceptions and six pass deflections across 12 games, including ten starts, and accounting for 572 defensive snaps. In addition, he allowed a modest 62.5% completion rate for 438 yards, two touchdowns, and an 88.7 passer rating.
Lee decided to return for his senior season instead of declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft to further develop and boost his draft stock. Being the team’s top cornerback should ultimately help his chances of being selected in next year’s draft.
Iowa Hawkeyes senior flying under-the-radar in 2026
Iowa Hawkeyes, Deshaun Lee
Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Deshaun Lee (8) reacts after intercepting a pass during a college football game against the Penn State Nittany Lions Oct. 18, 2025 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.
In an ESPN article, writers covering each Top-25-ranked school identified one under-the-radar player for the 2026 College Football Season. For Iowa, Adam Rittenberg named Deshaun Lee, noting that defensive backs under defensive coordinator Phil Parker typically have their best year in their final season after a solid 2025 campaign. He also noted that although star defensive back Zach Lutmer will generate most of the attention, we should still keep an eye on Lee at the perimeter.