After playing sparingly during his first season on campus, Xavier Nwankpa was a staple at the back end of the Iowa defense.
Even though the versatile former Southeast Polk star could play either safety spot, he started 26 consecutive games at strong safety before a rare position move to the other safety spot.
Nwankpa was serviceable at strong safety but never really took the leap most fans expected, given his five-star ranking coming out of high school.
Credit Phil Parker and the coaching staff for moving him to free safety during his final season because he took full advantage and had his best season as a Hawkeye.
Nwankpa is now representing Iowa at the 2026 NFL Combine in Indianapolis, but before participating, he posted a heartfelt thank you to Iowa fans.
Nwankpa posted a simple but thankful post to Iowa fans
Mannnn…. Thank you @HawkeyeFootball and Hawkeye Nation pic.twitter.com/bfi2SYGAUR
— Xavier “X” Nwankpa (@xaviernwankpa01) February 23, 2026
Nwankpa posted a two-minute compilation of some of his best moments, with the caption "mannnn....thank you Hawkeye Football and Hawkeye Nation."
The senior safety had his best season for the Hawkeyes last season, compiling 76 total tackles (50 solo, 26 assisted), two forced fumbles, and an interception.
As a free safety, Nwankpa was able to get downhill more, helping in rush defense, and laid some huge hits on unsuspecting running backs and receivers.
He finally tapped into his full potential and will look to carry his momentum into the NFL Combine and beyond.
According to NFL Draft analyst Lance Zierlein, Nwankpa has an uphill battle to make an NFL roster, but his athleticism can pave a path for him at the next level.