Something just never clicked with the Iowa passing game last season, but that doesn't minimize how talented Mark Gronowski is.
Gronowski was always the first one to take accountability for Iowa's lack of a potent passing attack, but we saw flashes at times last season.
One prime example came during the Michigan State game, where he threw a dart to senior wide receiver Jacob Gill in the end zone to tie the game.
Another was a dot to DJ Vonnahme for a touchdown early in the ReliaQuest Bowl victory over Vanderbilt.
No one truly knows why the passing attack didn't click, but Gronowski continues showcasing his arm talent during practices for the East-West Shrine Bowl in Frisco, Texas.
Gronowski has not been afraid to sling the ball downfield
Iowa’s Mark Gronowski has really flashed at the East-West Shrine Bowl. Hasn’t been afraid to push the ball down the field to show off the arm. pic.twitter.com/eg7W9JFx8m
— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) January 24, 2026
Gronowski is making a push to be the West's starting quarterback for the showcase game on January 27, alongside fellow Hawkeye Kaden Wetjen.
The veteran signal-caller has not been afraid to show off his arm, pushing the ball downfield with precision.
The above clip showcased his arm strength with a dot down the seam to one of his receivers.
This is a really good ball from @HawkeyeFootball QB Mark Gronowski on the fade route to @GatorsFB WR J. Michael Sturdivant.
— Josh Carney (@ByJoshCarney) January 26, 2026
Can't throw this much better. Nice early win on the route from Sturdivant, too, who has quietly had a really solid week. pic.twitter.com/mPk4mF5X8Y
This video showcases what we saw multiple times in Iowa City between Gronowski and Reece Vander Zee, as he could not have placed that touchdown pass to Florida WR J. Michael Sturdivant any better.
He was named one of the biggest winners of the weekend after multiple stellar practices, and regardless of whether he starts or comes in later, he is proving he can be a solid addition to any team.
Before last season, Gronowski was rising up recruiting boards after a stellar career with South Dakota State.
An injury last season and Iowa's lack of a potent passing attack with him under center forced him into the sixth or seventh round.
Some team will take a chance on Gronowski because of his size (six-foot-two, 225 pounds), his mobility, and his high football IQ, but it remains to be seen where he will go in the 2026 NFL Draft.
If he keeps putting out great performances during practices, drills, and showcase events, we could easily see his draft stock climb.