With only a handful of returning starters, there are plenty of snaps to go around on both sides of the football.
The Hawkeyes are missing several key pieces this season, prompting them to find other guys to step up. One of the hardest-hit groups is the defense, with all four starting defensive linemen, two linebackers, a starting cornerback, and both starting safeties all gone. While the task seems daunting, Iowa is not devoid of talent, and two talented defensive backs are poised to lead the secondary.
Zach Lutmer, Xavier Syles received high marks before the season kicks off
No one ever doubts Phil Parker or the Iowa defense, but there has been some concern about the lack of returners. Luckily for the program, Iowa has multiple returning players who have taken meaningful snaps. While the defensive front is still relatively unknown, the secondary has the potential to lead the unit, backed by two potential breakout stars.
Highest Graded Returning Big Ten Cornerbacks🔒 pic.twitter.com/2zVyNTQu9K
— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 19, 2026
After a breakout 2025, Zach Lutmer was ranked as the No. 4 highest-graded returning cornerback, with transfer Xavier Styles right behind him at No. 5. Lutmer will likely play either CASH or safety, and Styles is not necessarily considered a "returner" after transferring from Robert Morris, but it shows how much respect PFF has for both players. Lutmer will be one of the leaders of the defense, and his versatility allows Parker to slot him at every secondary position and not lose sleep over it. Lutmer's inclusion on this list isn't a surprise, and he could be even higher due to his versatility. He will definitely be in the mix for multiple postseason awards, and if he declares for the NFL Draft, he would be one of the top defensive backs taken next offseason.
It will be interesting to see if Styles' production transfers from Robert Morris, but he should be in the mix for snaps at cornerback with Deshaun Lee, Rashad Godfrey, Jaylen Watson, and Tyler Brown. We also shouldn't count out Cody Haddad, Jacob Wallace, and Darion Jones from making an impact. Styles tallied 36 total tackles, one interception, and an impressive six pass breakups last season and has the potential to earn significant reps in his first year with the program.
Iowa's pass defense was slightly better than its defense last season, and that trend could continue this season with the uncertainty on the defensive line. Lutmer will be a leader of the defense, and if they can get significant snaps out of Styles, it makes the secondary even more lethal than it already is.
Add us as a preferred source on Google