With the 2027 recruiting cycle calming down for the program, Iowa Football has turned its attention to the 2028 recruiting class.
The Hawkeyes' 2027 class has not gained much traction after its first official visit day, but there is still time to convince talented prospects to come to Iowa City. With the recruiting cycle slowing way down, Kirk Ferentz and the program have shifted focus to the 2028 class, with one prospect already verbally committing.
Versatile 2028 defensive back prospect Dwayle Smith recently visited the program and didn't leave Iowa City without verbally committing. The program also recently offered talented kicker/punter prospect Dima Petrov, and isn't stopping there.
Iowa offered 2028 OL prospect James Barnett in its latest string of offers for the class
The Hawkeyes have traditionally had stellar offensive line play under Ferentz, thanks to his extensive background as an OL coach in college and the NFL, and that tradition continued last season. For the second time in program history, the offensive line was named the Joe Moore Award winners, given to the best OL in college football.
Iowa's success over the past five seasons is due to the stellar coaching of George Barnett, and now he has the chance to make it a family affair.
Offered-University of Iowa @TylerBarnesIOWA @CoachMaccc pic.twitter.com/9lpWalp3bq
— James Barnett (@JamesBarne47542) June 19, 2026
James Barnett, the son of offensive coach George Barnett, announced he received an offer from the Iowa Football program. James has grown up around the Iowa football program, and receiving an offer from Kirk Ferentz and company holds special significance for the soon-to-be junior at Iowa City West High School.
After receiving an offer, James called the experience a "surreal moment" and stated that playing for Kirk Ferentz "would be awesome." Even with his dad on the Iowa Football coaching staff, James said he will consider his options, but Iowa is definitely near the top of the list.
James, a six-foot-two, 270-pound center for Iowa City West, has started to gain momentum on the recruiting trail, with multiple schools jumping in. He currently holds offers to play football for Iowa, Miami (OH), and South Dakota, but that list will likely grow.
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