Iowa Football's quarterback room has been a big topic of discussion after the end of the 2025 season. Quarterbacks always take the spotlight, especially for a struggling program.
The quarterback room includes returning junior Jackson Stratton and senior Brendan Sullivan, and adds freshman Jimmy Sullivan, sophomore transfer Hank Brown, and senior transfer Mark Gronowski.
After a week of spring practices, the quarterbacks were the main focus of Thursday's practice.
Mark Gronowski's health
The health and status of Iowa senior quarterback Mark Gronowski continues to be a storyline during spring practices. Gronowski had offseason shoulder surgery to repair damage he sustained during the previous season with South Dakota.
Last season with the Jackrabbits, Gronowski threw for 2,721 yards, with 23 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
During media interviews after Iowa's first spring practice, Head Coach Kirk Ferentz stated the staff is being cautious with Gronowski. Ferentz noted Gronowski has played a lot of football and is not worried about his progress after rehabbing his injury.
During a portion of Thursday's spring practice, Gronowski was seen in a practice jersey, but not wearing pads or a helmet. He was moving around and took some snaps under center.
Ferentz noted Gronowski will not throw with the team during spring practices, but will begin throwing within the next few weeks.
Quarterback room aims to mesh with each other and the program
Iowa had four healthy quarterbacks at practice on Thursday. Brendan Sullivan, Stratton, Brown, and Jimmy Sullivan suited up for the Hawkeyes.
The re-worked Iowa quarterback room aims to mesh quickly after last season. Brendan Sullivan and Jackson Stratton were the only quarterbacks to throw a pass for the Hawkeyes last season.
Brown and Jimmy Sullivan joined the team in December 2024 to prepare for the January 2025 TransPerfect Music City Bowl.
Brown threw a dart to a fellow transfer Sam Phillips during one of the drills.
Auburn transfer Hank Brown to Chattanooga transfer Sam Phillips. pic.twitter.com/QJKULFUAse
— Tyler Tachman (@Tyler_T15) April 3, 2025
Gronowski is the 2025 projected starter, but if he is not fully healthy to start the season, the Hawkeyes must find a second option. The quarterback room is beginning to gel, but there is a long way to go before the 2025 season kicks off against Albany on August 30.