As the Hawkeyes diligently pursue talented prospects in the 2027 recruiting class, Kirk Ferentz made a splash in the 2028 class.
It has quieted down on the recruiting trail significantly since spring practices, with only a few prospects committing after Iowa's first big official visit weekend a few weekends ago. The program has added three players to the 2027 class since then, including defensive lineman Bariyus Allen, defensive back Jonathan Harris, and running back Keyon Thomas.
In the full swing of recruiting for the 2027 class, Iowa landed a surprise commitment from a versatile defensive back in the 2028 class.
2028 DB Dwayle Smith's commitment gives Iowa a good start in the recruiting class
It is still very early in the recruitment process for the 2028 class, but the Hawkeyes got a jump start with Baltimore product Dwayle Smith's commitment.
IT’S OFFICIAL🐤🐤🐤 pic.twitter.com/wEbgGef91e
— DWAYLE SMITH (@dwayle823) June 20, 2026
Smith is a product of St. Francis Academy in Baltimore, and he was so impressed with the program that he didn't leave without giving a verbal commitment. He reportedly visited the program on Friday, June 19, and committed almost immediately after. Smith is coming off his sophomore season at St. Francis, but the Iowa program already felt like the perfect fit.
Smith told On3 Sports' Blair Sanderson that he liked the people and the culture the most, and the program treated him and his mom very well. He immediately felt like he belonged, and he could see himself "being a Hawkeye." Smith is a versatile defensive back who can play multiple positions in the secondary, which has already enticed several big programs to offer him.
He has received offers from Auburn, Florida State, Texas A&M, and Virginia Tech, among many others, and the Hawkeyes love his versatility. Smith said the program sees him playing cornerback, nickel, and CASH. His versatility is extremely intriguing for the program, similar to what current defensive back Zach Lutmer brings to the table, and it wouldn't be a surprise if Smith got a boost in the 2028 rankings before he arrives in Iowa City.
Smith is Iowa's first verbal commitment in the 2028 class and was a solid get for Kirk Ferentz and the program this early in the process.
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