A new 'way too early' rankings list should get Iowa fans fired up for next season

With the National Championship game between Indiana and Miami in the rear-view mirror, everyone is already looking ahead to the 2026 season.

The transfer portal window has closed, but multiple players are still looking for new homes as teams carefully assess their needs for next season.

After recently adding transfer defensive back Cody Haddad to the roster, the Hawkeyes currently sit at 15 players in and eight players out during this year's transfer cycle.

Iowa also returns multiple starters on both sides of the ball and will look to build on a solid 9-4 season in 2025.

With the current status of the roster, along with the incoming recruiting class and transfers, some media members are adding the Hawkeyes to "way too early" top 25 projections for next season.

On3 Sports put Iowa at No. 21 in their 'way too early' rankings for 2026

Iowa had numerous chances to make the College Football Playoff field for the first time this season, but ultimately fell short.

Iowa's four losses last season were all to ranked teams and a combined 15 points.

The squad righted the ship, finishing with three wins to close out the season, including an impressive 41-16 victory over rival Nebraska and a 34-27 win over Vanderbilt in the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl.

After a successful 2025 campaign, the On3 Sports placed them in their top 25 before next season.

After finishing at No. 17 following the 2025 season, No. 21 feels just about right for the Hawkeyes next season.

The Hawkeyes will need to find their new starting quarterback and replace three starters across the offensive and defensive lines, so there are some unknowns heading into next season.

The program does have multiple talented prospects incoming and filled some areas of need with transfers.

As Iowa fans, we know we don't have to worry about a Phil Parker-coached defense, and if the offense can continue making strides under OC Tim Lester, watch out for the Hawkeyes next season and beyond.