Iowa's rushing attack has been miles ahead of the passing attack for most of Kirk Ferentz's tenure, and with a stellar offensive line year after year, it's easy to see why.
Last season, the offensive line group, led by Logan Jones, Gennings Dunker, Kade Pieper, Beau Stephens, and Trevor Lauck, earned the Joe Moore Award, given to the best OL unit in college football.
With Jones, Dunker, and Stephens heading to the NFL, it is hopefully rinse and repeat for the unit next season, which is encouraging for the running back group.
Not only is it encouraging for the current running back room, but enticing for future prospects.
Keyon Thomas' elite speed is a must-have for the Iowa backfield
If you're a talented running back prospect, why wouldn't you want to run behind one of the best offensive lines in college football year after year?
The Iowa running back room is projected to be one of the deepest rooms next season, and it could get even better with the addition of a speedy running back prospect from Indianapolis.
After a great conversation with @CoachJayNorvell I’m blessed to receive an offer from @HawkeyeFootball @CoachWhitaker1 @WARRENCENTRALFB @SWiltfong_ @Bryan_Ault @IndianaPreps pic.twitter.com/TcOpmJ33oH
— Keyon thomas (@Keyonthomas08) April 29, 2026
2027 running back prospect Keyon Thomas announced he received an offer from the Hawkeyes after a conversation with the new running backs coach, Jay Norvell, and his elite speed really stands out on film.
If you don't hit Thomas in the backfield or wrap him up on the perimeter, good luck catching him because he will be gone in the blink of an eye.
While speed is Thomas' greatest asset, he also has great vision to hit the open hole, and can easily break out of arm tackles.
Thomas had a highly productive junior season for Warren Central High School last year, tallying 1,337 rushing yards on 168 rushing attempts with 19 touchdowns. He also added 184 receiving yards and a touchdown through the air.
Rivals' industry ranking currently has Thomas as a three-star prospect, Indiana's No. 17 overall prospect, the No. 85 running back prospect, and the No. 1,171 prospect in the 2027 recruiting class.
Add us as a preferred source on Google