Iowa Football’s 2025 Team Awards honor exceptional players. Leading the Way Are Gronowski and Lutmer Iowa City, Iowa The Iowa football program announced its 2025 team award winners in a heartfelt Sunday announcement that felt like a celebration of perseverance, development, and game-changing performances. The players who stood tallest through a season full of unforgettable highs and fierce battles were recognized. Senior quarterback Mark Gronowski and sophomore defensive back Zach Lutmer, the offensive and defensive Roy J. Carver Most Valuable Players, respectively, were highlighted.
Gronowski was the entire rhythm section for the Hawkeyes’ offense, not just the heartbeat. Throughout the season, the Naperville, Illinois native led the Black and Gold attack with extraordinary flair and consistency, living up to every bit of the MVP billing. In a season that was both thrilling and historic, he broke school records, displayed a unique dual-threat skill set, and cemented his place in Iowa history.
Gronowski’s ability to change the record books was the most notable aspect of his campaign. He set program records for a quarterback in both categories with his 15 touchdowns and 491 yards on the ground. He rushed for at least one touchdown in ten consecutive games, the longest streak of any Big Ten quarterback, so it wasn’t an isolated incident. Both opponents and supporters sat up and paid attention when they saw a signal-caller running with such ease as he passed.
Additionally, he posed more than just a ground threat. Gronowski finished the season with an incredible 2,020 total yards of offense, including 1,529 passing yards in addition to his rushing output. He became the first Hawkeye in school history to rush, throw, and receive a touchdown in the same game against USC, which was one of the most thrilling moments. This accomplishment defies convention and highlights his versatility.
Beyond the stats, Gronowski changed the perception of what it means to be a quarterback for Iowa. With 57 career wins, including eight at Iowa and 49 at South Dakota State, he is currently the most successful starting quarterback in all NCAA divisions. Clutch, brave, and charismatic, he led the Hawkeyes through a season of outstanding performances by inspiring teammates.
Zach Lutmer became the Hawkeyes’ defensive cornerstone on the other side of the ball. Lutmer, a sophomore from Rock Rapids, Iowa, was clearly visible in the secondary. He disrupted opposing offenses with quickness and cunning, leading the team with three interceptions (for 72 return yards) and tied for second in pass breakups. In addition to energizing the defense, his ability to make plays when it mattered most, such as a 34-yard pick-six against Minnesota, swung momentum in pivotal moments.
In addition to his exceptional coverage skills, Lutmer was a formidable tackler who finished fourth on the team with 68 stops, including 5.5 tackles for loss in 12 starts. The fact that a sophomore received the defensive MVP award, the first since offensive lineman Tyler Linderbaum did so in 2020, says a lot about his consistent development and the degree of confidence Iowa’s coaching staff had in him throughout the season. Outside of the team, his performance was also well-received. Lutmer’s breakout campaign was further validated when Big Ten coaches selected him for the All-Big Ten Second Team earlier in December.
However, the MVP awards were not the end of the award announcements. Five permanent team captains were also announced by the Hawkeyes, who selected leaders who made an impact on the field and in the locker room. Alongside graduate center Logan Jones, who anchored a revitalized offensive line with his tough play, Gronowski earned one of those captain’s patches for offense. Ethan Hurkett, a graduate defensive end, and Koen Entringer, a junior defensive back, were chosen for defense. Kaden Wetjen, a graduate return specialist, was assigned to special teams duties. Throughout the season, his electric field position plays gave the Hawkeyes a boost.
The Iron Hawk Award, which honors athletes who exhibit physical play, hustle, and leadership, was notably shared by Hurkett and Jones. In the meantime, Jones also won the Hayden Fry Award, which is named for the renowned coach who contributed to the development of Iowa football culture. This honor recognizes Jones’ influence on the young Hawkeyes as well as his high-caliber play throughout the season.
A roster that combined seasoned leadership with up-and-coming talent is highlighted by the full slate of award winners, which includes captains, MVPs, and special honor recipients. Iowa supporters witnessed two players emerge and seize control of a season that will be remembered for striking a balance between tradition and exhilarating new energy in Gronowski and Lutmer.
As the Hawkeyes look ahead with returning stars and a culture steeped in competitive toughness Sunday’s awards weren’t just acknowledgments of achievement. They were a testament to the heart and hustle that define Iowa football.
