When players join the Iowa program, they don't leave.
The Iowa football program under Kirk Ferentz has earned a reputation as one of the best developmental programs in college football, and former and current players echo that.
During his media availability at the NFL Combine, kicker Drew Stevens called Iowa "the best development school out there."
Former Hawkeye and Super Bowl Champion Cooper DeJean echoed those words during his appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, stating that Iowa is run like an NFL organization.
Players don't leave Iowa, regardless of how much other teams love them.
Gennings Dunker had a funny response when he was asked about transferring
The love affair for offensive lineman Gennings Dunker has ramped up since his appearance at the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl, and it has continued through the NFL Combine.
Dunker has made headlines for his impressive physical traits, versatility, and, of course, his glorious red mullet, and even though he could've gotten more money elsewhere, he never considered leaving the program.
Did Gennings Dunker ever explore the transfer portal? Here’s his answer. pic.twitter.com/ZSQeOQsRRY
— Scott Dochterman (@ScottDochterman) February 28, 2026
When asked whether he ever considered transferring, Dunker said he never looked because he never wanted to, and you "couldn't have paid" him to leave.
He also said that it meant everything to him to play at Iowa and for Coach Ferentz, and that is something that money cannot buy.
There is no doubt that Dunker will make an impact in the NFL at whatever position he ultimately lines up at, and his versatility will keep him in the league for a long time.
NFL scouts have him likely moving inside to a guard, but his size and NFL-ready build project him as a starter in the future.