Iowa Hawkeyes Tight End Zach Ortwerth Poised for Key Role in 2026
As the Iowa Hawkeyes count down to their season opener against Northern Illinois on Sept. 5, the focus turns to a player who could be a key piece in the offense this fall. With 48 days until kickoff, tight end Zach Ortwerth, wearing No. 48, is ready to make his mark in his senior season.
Ortwerth, a 6-foot-4, 245-pound senior from St. Louis, Missouri, has quietly built a solid career at Iowa. While junior tight end DJ Vonnahme is the headliner at the position, Ortwerth brings experience and reliability that head coach Kirk Ferentz and offensive coordinator Tim Lester will lean on.
Ortwerth saw action in seven games as a freshman in 2023, including one start. His first big play came in a 22-0 shutout of Rutgers that November, when he hauled in a 54-yard pass from Deacon Hill. That catch remains his longest career reception.
Over three seasons, Ortwerth has 263 receiving yards on 21 catches, averaging 12.5 yards per reception. He has yet to score a touchdown, but that could change in 2026.
What Ortwerth Brings to the Hawkeyes Offense
Iowa has a long tradition of producing NFL-caliber tight ends, from Dallas Clark to T.J. Hockenson and Sam LaPorta. Ortwerth may not be the next star, but he is a serviceable, dependable option who knows the system.
He earned four starts in 2025, and with Vonnahme expected to handle the bulk of snaps, Ortwerth will be the No. 2 option. That role is far from insignificant. In Tim Lester's offense, tight ends are used heavily in both the passing game and as blockers.
Ortwerth's size and experience make him a valuable asset in short-yardage situations and red-zone packages. If he can secure his first career touchdown this season, it would be a milestone for a player who has been a steady contributor.
Notable Hawkeye to Wear No. 48
Ortwerth follows in the footsteps of former defensive lineman Howard Hodges, who wore No. 48 from 1999 to 2003. Hodges earned first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2002 and helped the Hawkeyes win a Big Ten title that same year. He was a key part of Ferentz's early success in Iowa City.
What to Expect in 2026
The Hawkeyes are looking to rebound after a challenging 2025 season. With a revamped offense under Lester and a defense that remains strong, Iowa fans have reason for optimism. Ortwerth's role as a reliable No. 2 tight end will be crucial, especially if the offense needs to sustain drives and control the clock.
Ortwerth may not be the flashiest name on the roster, but his consistency and work ethic fit the Iowa mold. If he can add a touchdown or two to his resume, he will be a fan favorite by season's end.
For Iowa fans, the countdown is on. And with 48 days to go, all eyes are on No. 48.