The Iowa Hawkeyes are set to make significant changes to their safety lineup this season following the departures of key players. With Xavier Nwankpa moving on to the NFL and joining the Kansas City Chiefs, and Koen Entringer transferring to Louisville, head coach Kirk Ferentz recognized the need to bolster the secondary through the transfer portal.
In response, Iowa brought in three transfer safeties: Tyler Brown from James Madison, Xavier Styles from Robert Morris, and Anthony Hawkins from Villanova. Among these newcomers, Brown was initially viewed as the most promising candidate to secure a starting position. However, an offseason injury has altered those plans, as Brown is currently dealing with a muscle strain and did not make the season-opening depth chart.
As a result, Ferentz has turned to Hawkins, who has been named the starting strong safety. During a recent media session, Ferentz praised Hawkins' performance and development since joining the team in January. "He’s been impressive," Ferentz noted, emphasizing Hawkins' strong work ethic and adaptability. "He’s done a really good job, and he does have good range. He’s a big, tall guy. Probably one of the taller safeties I’ve ever seen, at least since we’ve been here."
Standing at 6-foot-3, Hawkins hails from Annapolis, Maryland, and had a standout season at Villanova in 2025. He recorded 57 total tackles, defended nine passes, intercepted two, and forced a fumble, which earned him recognition as an FCS Freshman All-American. His impressive statistics showcase his ability to make impactful plays, a crucial trait for any defensive back.
With Brown sidelined, Hawkins will be expected to step up and fill a vital role in the Hawkeyes' defense. His physical presence and experience from Villanova will be essential as Iowa looks to establish a strong defensive backfield. Once Brown returns to full health, the Hawkeyes could potentially have one of the more formidable and underrated defensive back groups in the Big Ten.
The upcoming season presents a unique opportunity for Hawkins to prove himself on a larger stage. As he takes on this new challenge, both fans and coaches will be eager to see how he performs in the competitive landscape of college football.
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