The Hawkeyes will be well-represented at the 2026 NFL Combine in Indianapolis at the end of February and into early March.
Nine former Iowa players are heading to Indy from February 23 to March 2 for one last test before the NFL Draft from April 23 to 25.
Three of Iowa's nine invited players are from a stout Iowa defense that had another stellar season under Phil Parker.
The Hawkeyes' defense ranked in the top 20 overall in passing yards allowed (No. 10), rushing yards allowed (No. 17), scoring defense (No. 8), and total defense (No. 9) last season.
While the Hawkeyes do have three defensive players who were invited, one senior stalwart was a glaring omission.
Aaron Graves was not invited to the NFL Combine
Defensive lineman Aaron Graves was questionably not invited to the Combine after experiencing his best season as a Hawkeye last year.
During his graduate season for the Iowa defense, Graves compiled 37 total tackles (17 solo, 20 assisted), five sacks, and an interception.
After five seasons on the Hawkeye defense, Graves finished with 120 total tackles (54 solo, 66 assisted), 15.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, and an interception.
Graves has been a consistent producer for a traditionally stout Iowa defense, and to not invite him to the Combine is a massive mistake by the NFL.
Even though he will not be representing Iowa in Indianapolis, Graves still has a chance to make an impact at the next level, and will begin his career with a chip on his shoulder.