· 2026-06-16 · Dear Old Gold

The Iowa Hawkeyes are gearing up for a pivotal recruiting weekend as they aim to secure top prospects from the 2028 class, crucial for maintaining their edge over the Iowa State Cyclones in their long-standing rivalry. With the recruiting landscape shifting, especially after Iowa State's head coach Matt Campbell moved to Penn State, the Hawkeyes have a prime opportunity to capitalize on the uncertainty surrounding their in-state rivals. This weekend, starting June 19, the Hawkeyes will host three key in-state recruits who are currently weighing their options between Iowa and Iowa State. Among these prospects is Jevyn Severson, a four-star tight end from Madrid, Iowa, who is considered the top prospect in the state. His exceptional athleticism and pass-catching ability make him a perfect fit for the Iowa offense, which has a storied tradition of developing tight ends. Another critical recruit is Declan Heying, a four-star offensive tackle from Des Moines. Standing at six-foot-six and weighing 275 pounds, Heying embodies the physical attributes that the Iowa Hawkeyes look for in their offensive linemen. His potential to contribute to the program's legacy of excellence in offensive line play is significant. Lastly, Isaiah Grant, a four-star wide receiver from Sioux City, is also on the Hawkeyes' radar. With the wide receiver corps at Iowa showing promise, securing Grant would ensure continued success in that position. The upcoming visits are crucial for the Iowa Hawkeyes as they strive to assert their dominance in the state and enhance their recruiting efforts against Iowa State.