Iowa Hawkeyes Shine in NFL Top 100: Four Former Stars Make the Cut
Iowa football continues to prove it's a powerhouse for developing NFL talent, with four former Hawkeyes earning spots on the NFL's Top 100 players list for the 2026 season. The ranking, voted on by the players themselves, highlights the depth and quality of Kirk Ferentz's program as it churns out top-tier professionals year after year.
As the list counts down to number one, with 30 players still to be revealed, these four Hawkeyes have already made their mark. From a hard-hitting linebacker to a versatile defensive back, Iowa's presence in the league is undeniable.
Jack Campbell: The Heart of Detroit's Defense
Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell came in at number 88, earning recognition for a breakout season. The former Hawkeye made his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro team in 2025, anchoring a Lions defense that has become one of the NFL's most feared units.
“Campbell made his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro team last season, emerging as the heart of the Lions defense. The off-ball linebacker's 176 tackles ranked second in the league, but he added a little extra to his bag by more than doubling his previous career sack total of 3.5.” – NFL.com
Campbell's 176 tackles were second in the NFL, and he graded out as Pro Football Focus's top linebacker in run defense (93.0) and second overall (90.2). He also ranked 12th among linebackers in coverage, showing his all-around game is elite.
Tristan Wirfs: Protecting the Blind Side
Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs checked in at number 52. The two-time All-Pro bounced back from an early-season knee injury to protect quarterback Baker Mayfield's blind side, earning his fifth straight Pro Bowl nod.
“In his fifth straight Pro Bowl season, Wirfs bounced back from an early-season knee injury to protect Baker Mayfield's blind side down the stretch. The two-time All-Pro caught his very first NFL touchdown pass, a 2-yard haul from Mayfield in a Week 13 win over Arizona.” – NFL.com
Wirfs' versatility and resilience make him one of the league's premier linemen, a testament to Iowa's tradition of developing NFL-ready offensive talent.
George Kittle: Still Dominating at Tight End
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle landed at number 46, despite a torn Achilles that limited him to 11 games in 2025. The seven-time Pro Bowler remains one of the most respected players in the league, earning a top-50 spot for the eighth straight year.
“A torn Achilles limited Kittle to 11 games last season, but what he accomplished in those weeks and his reputation among his peers is enough to keep him inside the top 50 for a remarkable eighth straight year. He dropped just two passes and garnered an overall 90.8 grade – first at his position.” – NFL.com
Kittle's receiving grade of 91.2 was tops among tight ends, and he posted strong grades in both run and pass blocking. His leadership and production remain vital for the 49ers.
Cooper DeJean: From Super Bowl Hero to Rising Star
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean made the list at number 88, building on a dream start to his NFL career. The 23-year-old won a Super Bowl as a rookie with a pick-six in the big game, then made his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro team in 2025.
“DeJean built on a dream rookie season that included winning a Super Bowl with a pick-six in the big game by going on to make his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro team in 2025. He'll be taking on a new challenge in Year 3, as he's set to play safety when the Eagles operate in a base defense.” – NFL.com
DeJean's versatility and playmaking ability have made him a key piece of Philadelphia's defense, which ranked top five in points allowed for a second straight year.
What This Means for Iowa Football
The success of these four Hawkeyes on the NFL stage is a direct reflection of the program's culture and coaching under Kirk Ferentz. Iowa consistently develops players who not only make it to the league but excel at the highest level. For Iowa fans, this list is a reminder that the program's pipeline to the pros is as strong as ever.
The top 30 players on the NFL Top 100 will be revealed over the next month, with the number one spot announced on September 4. Could another Hawkeye crack the list? Time will tell, but Iowa's reputation as a breeding ground for NFL talent is already secure.