There are multiple reasons former Hawkeye speedster Kaden Wetjen is known for his prowess in the return game.
While Wetjen never really got his chance to shine as a wide receiver, he was invaluable for the Iowa special teams unit for the past two seasons.
Wetjen was an underrecruited star from Williamsburg, Iowa, and chose to go the community college route before making the leap to Division I.
After one solid season for Iowa Western Community College, where he guided the Reivers to the NJCAA National Championship game, he received only two walk-on offers. One from Iowa, and one from UMass.
He chose the offer from Iowa, and the rest is history.
After back-to-back Jet Award-winning seasons, Wetjen is one of nine Iowa representatives at the 2026 NFL Combine and is confident that he can help any team's special teams unit right away.
Wetjen is confident that he can 'make an immediate impact' on special teams
Wetjen spoke to the media at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, and he fully leaned into his return specialist role that has earned him so much recognition.
Iowa WR Kaden Wetjen on his special teams super power and getting the opportunity to showcase his abilities in the slot. pic.twitter.com/uEmEPjBYcD
— The Draft Network (@TheDraftNetwork) February 27, 2026
Wetjen stated that while most guys go from being a full-time receiver to special teams, he is attempting to do it the other way around.
He told multiple NFL coaches and scouts that he knows he can make an immediate impact in the return game, but he acknowledged that it is important he also showcases his ability in the slot.
Wetjen wants to make himself as valuable to an NFL organization as possible and knows how important it is to be solid on offense and special teams.
There are few better in the return game than Kaden Wetjen, and if he can showcase his speed and catching ability in the slot as well, a team is definitely going to take a chance on him in the upcoming NFL Draft.