Merry Christmas, Iowa Football fans!
The Hawkeyes left the Eastern Iowa airport on Christmas Day to head to Tampa for the ReliaQuest Bowl. Iowa has been preparing to battle Heisman runner-up Diego Pavia and the No. 14 Vanderbilt Commodores on New Year's Eve.
The Hawkeyes could be without star defensive back TJ Hall, as his name was not on the initial depth chart for the game. Another Hawkeye DB is also gaining media attention regarding his status for next season.
Koen Entringer has established himself as a playmaker for the Hawkeye secondary, and it was rumored that the junior captain might forgo his final season in Iowa City for the NFL Draft.
Despite all the buzz surrounding Entringer's status, Kirk Ferentz was adamant that he would return next season, and a day after Christmas, Entringer confirmed his status for next season.
Iowa safety Koen Entringer confirms that he will return to the #Hawkeyes for his senior year. Great news and a potential all-conference caliber player back for Phil Parker.
— David Eickholt (@DavidEickholt) December 26, 2025
According to 247Sports' David Eickholt, Entringer told members of the media that he will return for his senior season.
This is great news for fans and the program because they will no longer have to replace multiple starters in the secondary next season.
Iowa is losing safety Xavier Nwankpa and TJ Hall after this season, so Entringer's return is massive for the program.
Entringer's numbers has improved every season, and he is averaging career-highs across the board this year.
In 12 games for the Hawkeyes this season, Entringer has compiled 69 total tackles (41 solo, 28 assisted), four passes defended, and one forced fumble.
The Hawkeyes are getting back not only a solid player, but a leader and a captain in the Iowa secondary.
If Entringer can improve on a stellar junior season, he has the potential to be an All-Big Ten selection and one of the best defensive backs in college football.