Before he even takes an official snap at center, Kade Pieper is gaining a lot of attention.
After last season, rumors were swirling that Pieper was going to forgo his fourth year and enter the NFL Draft. Pieper quickly shut those rumors down, and it was later revealed that he had a very brief conversation about it with OL coach George Barnett. Pieper simply stated, "Coach, I'm good," proving he never really considered leaving the program after last year. Now entering his fourth year, Pieper will lead the OL, and a shift in positions isn't affecting his growing draft stock.
Pieper was selected as an AP Preseason All-American after shifting to center
With veteran center Logan Jones now with the Chicago Bears, the Hawkeyes had a massive hole at the center of the offensive line, and in order to fill it, the program is reportedly shifting Pieper from guard to center. Pieper is one of two returning starters on the offensive line alongside Trevor Lauck, and he showcased his versatility by moving over to shore up the middle of the line. Even after shifting from guard to center, Pieper's stock continues to rise, and it isn't a surprise that he was named an AP Preseason All-American.
Pieper was selected as an AP Preseason All-American First-Team selection before he takes a snap at center, proving how highly everyone rates his ability to make a seamless transition after starting all 13 games at right guard last season. Pieper continues to rack up preseason award nominations, having already been named a Preseason First-Team All-American by Athlon, Phil Steele, and Walter Camp, and was also named to the Outland and Rimington Trophy watch lists.
Pieper took full advantage of his first full season as a starter last year, helping the offensive line earn the Joe Moore Award, and if he continues his meteoric rise this season, there is no doubt that he will start to appear at the top of most NFL draft boards. With the NCAA's new 5-for-5 eligibility rules, Pieper has the potential to return to Iowa for one more season, but he will be considered one of the top NFL draft picks if he declares.
For now, he gives the Hawkeye a proven leader on the offensive line and he will be the anchor the Hawkeyes were desperately searching for after three long-time OL stalwarts headed to the NFL. With some uncertainty on the offensive line this season, Pieper will play a critical role in protecting the new QB1, while also paving the way for a traditionally stout Iowa running game. He has proven that he is up for the challenge, and Iowa needs him to be at his best from the very beginning of the season.
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