With a roster reshaped by NFL departures, graduation and the transfer portal, the 2026 Hawkeye football team enters a new era with plenty of opportunity across all three phases of the game. This week on Fight for Iowa, head coach Kirk Ferentz discusses the importance of integrating nearly 30 new players into the program as Iowa prepares for summer workouts and the start of another demanding Big Ten season.

We take a closer look at the Hawkeyes’ defensive rebuild, where longtime defensive line coach Kelvin Bell is tasked with developing the next wave of talent up front following the departures of Aaron Graves, Max Llewellyn and Ethan Hurkett. Bell shares his thoughts on the progress made during spring practice and the mentality of Iowa’s young defensive front.

Linebacker Jayden Montgomery reflects on stepping into a larger leadership role after learning from Hawkeye greats like Jay Higgins, while rising sophomore Cam Buffington talks about the growth of Iowa’s young linebacker group and the culture that continues to produce standout defenders.

Plus, All-Big Ten defensive back Zach Lutmer discusses his breakout season, the possibility of handling kick return duties this fall, and the excitement building for a September packed with games at Kinnick Stadium.

It’s another inside look at the players and coaches shaping the future of Iowa football — this week on Fight for Iowa.

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This week on the Fight for Iowa podcast, Gary Dolphin visits with new Hawkeye guard Ty'Reek Coleman, the talented transfer from Illinois State who helped lead the Redbirds to the NIT title game during an impressive freshman season. Coleman discusses his relationship with Ben McCollum, why Iowa felt like the right fit, and what excites him most about joining the Hawkeyes.

Dolph also shares Coach McCollum’s thoughts on Iowa’s two transfer portal additions — Coleman and 7-foot-3 center Andrew McKeever — as the Hawkeyes continue building their roster for next season. Plus, a look at Iowa’s newly released Big Ten schedule and the matchups awaiting the Hawkeyes this winter.

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This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin sits down with new Hawkeye center Andrew McKeever after his commitment to Iowa Basketball. The 7’3 transfer from Saint Mary's discusses why Iowa was his first and only visit, what sold him on Coach Ben McCollum and the Hawkeye offense, and how the transfer portal process shaped his decision.

McKeever talks about his rebounding mentality, player development, and his excitement to arrive in Iowa City this June. Plus, hear why the West Coast Conference’s leading rebounder believes Iowa is the perfect fit as he prepares for his next step in college basketball.

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