Iowa Coach Kirk Ferentz Flags Defensive Line as Top Concern for 2026

At Big Ten Media Days in Chicago, Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz said the Hawkeyes’ defensive line is his biggest worry heading into the 2026 season. He noted that seven of the eight starters from the previous year have departed, leaving only Bryce Hawthorne with significant experience. Ferentz expects the unit to rely on depth, rotating players more frequently than in recent years, and he cited growth seen in spring practice.

Michigan State coach Pat Fitzgerald used the same media event to praise Ferentz, calling him “the best” and highlighting his humility and consistency. Fitzgerald also mentioned that former Iowa assistant LeVar Woods has joined Michigan State as special‑teams coach and assistant head coach, underscoring the respect Ferentz commands among fellow Big Ten coaches.