The offseason is winding down before the 2026-2027 starts, and we still don't have a clearer picture of who the starting quarterback will be.
This is nothing new for Hawkeye fans, as we have seen this play out before, and Kirk Ferentz and company are waiting for someone to emerge before deciding. Ferentz has been adamant that both Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski have performed well through the offseason and are neck and neck. With an open practice happening on August 15, we will get one final in-depth look, but Ferentz announced his final decision will ultimately come down to two factors.
Ferentz gave us a glimpse into his mindset in deciding the starting QB
Iowa's revolving door at quarterback continues after Mark Gronowski graduated, and the two projected starting candidates have not separated themselves. That is not to say either hasn't performed well, but neither has taken the job and run with it. It could also be a classic case of Ferentz making absolutely sure they have the right fit, and he won't announce until then. Either way, Ferentz hasn't given away too much, but he did hint at some of the final criteria.
Kirk Ferentz says he's looking for leadership in the decision on who will be the starter between Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski. That, and smart decision-making on the field.
— Eliot Clough (@EliotClough) August 14, 2026
Ferentz admitted that two determining factors are leadership and smart decision-making on the field, suggesting both players have the physical tools and athletic abilities to earn the job. Brown started as the primary backup last season before Hecklinski took over during the Wisconsin game, but all that has been thrown out the window in the offseason. Whatever advantage Hecklinski had over Brown disappeared during the offseason, making the competition much closer than most people think. Both are capable players, but the Aug. 15 open practice will go a long way toward determining who might have the edge.
Brown is a prototypical pocket-passer with a good arm and solid accuracy, while Hecklinski is more of a gunslinger who isn't afraid to take risks and also use his legs. If the last few seasons gave us any indication, offensive coordinator Tim Lester isn't afraid to add new wrinkles into the playbook, especially if he has a more mobile quarterback. Gronowski set multiple program records last season, giving Iowa an element that they don't normally have. Without knowing who has the edge, we have to give Hecklinski a slight edge. Iowa needs a quarterback who isn't afraid to push it downfield and can use his legs effectively.
We aren't counting Brown out just yet, and if he wins the job, it will be because Ferentz decided he gives the Hawkeyes the best chance to win, but don't be surprised if Hecklinski wins the job when it is all said and done.
Add us as a preferred source on Google