The Iowa Hawkeyes' defense was stout again last season. Under defensive wizard Phil Parker, the Hawkeyes' defense ranked in the top 25 in opponents' points per game, rush yards per game, pass yards per game, and takeaways.
A large part of the Hawkeye defense's success starts on the defensive line. Iowa employs a unique 4-5-2 defensive scheme, which means they almost always have four down linemen. Iowa does not blitz very much and relies on its front four to get pressure on the quarterback or plug up holes.
A key piece in the middle of the defensive line is Aaron Graves. The six-foot-four, 300-pound tackle from Dayton, Iowa, has been a staple of the defensive line since he stepped on campus in 2022.
Rumors swirled that he might leave Iowa to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, but he is returning to Iowa City for his senior season next year.
Ahead of his senior year, Graves is earning recognition.
Aaron Graves ➡️ Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List#Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/AnZjRerL90
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) May 28, 2025
On May 28, Graves was named to the Lott IMPACT Trophy Watchlist. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, and Tenacity, and is presented to the defensive player who has the biggest "IMPACT" on their team on and off the field.
Last season, Graves tallied 33 tackles (eight for loss), six sacks, three forced fumbles, three pass breakups, and two quarterback hurries. His three forced fumbles led the Big Ten.
Graves has logged multiple volunteer hours off the field at Filter of Hope, Safe Haven Animal Shelter, Athletes in Action, Day of Caring, and CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank.