Max Llewellyn, a defensive lineman for the Hawkeyes, is ready to move on to the NFL after concluding an incredible five years in Iowa City. An invitation to participate in the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl, one of college football’s top postseason all-star competitions, has been formally accepted by the seasoned lineman. Every year, top college prospects have the chance to showcase their abilities to NFL scouts, coaches, and front-office staff from all 32 teams. For Llewellyn, the invitation is an important opportunity to further improve his draft stock on a national level as well as a recognition of his body of work at Iowa.
Llewellyn is the only Hawkeye chosen for the East-West Shrine Bowl this cycle, even though a number of his Iowa teammates have earned spots in other prestigious scouting events, such as the Panini Senior Bowl. This distinction highlights his consistency as well as the special skill set he acquired while participating in the program. Llewellyn, who stands 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighs 263 pounds, has long been a formidable presence on the defensive end. He was born in Urbandale, Iowa, and played in 42 games for the Hawkeyes during his career, gradually establishing himself as a reliable and disruptive lineman. He anchored Iowa’s defensive line with poise and toughness during the 2025 season, when he started all 12 games.
Llewellyn’s career statistics demonstrate his influence outside of the box score. His ability to penetrate the backfield and put pressure on opposing quarterbacks is demonstrated by his 61 total tackles at the end of his time at Iowa, which included 20 tackles for loss and 14 sacks. His versatility was also evident in the passing lanes, where he recorded ten passes defended—a rare but useful quality for a defensive lineman. Llewellyn regularly discovered methods to produce plays that changed momentum, going beyond the conventional metrics. He frequently changed field position or stopped drives at crucial times, forcing three fumbles and recovering two more. His motor and discipline skills, which don’t always show up in highlights but are crucial at the next level, were often mentioned by coaches and teammates.
Twenty-nine players had accepted invitations to the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl as of the morning of December 16. Llewellyn will be accompanied by a number of prominent Big Ten players, including three Michigan players: offensive guard Giovanni El-Hadi, fullback Max Bredeson, and kicker Dominic Zvada, as well as USC linebacker Eric Gentry. A competitive week of practices and assessments is promised by the variety of talent. On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. CT, the 101st East-West Shrine Bowl will begin at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. NFL evaluators frequently visit the location, which is the Dallas Cowboys’ practice facility, during draft season.
The invitation is more than simply another game to Llewellyn. It is a testament to Iowa’s defensive system’s years of effort, innumerable repetitions, and consistent improvement. Additionally, it provides one last test before the NFL Draft process enters its most competitive stage. Those who follow Iowa football will be keeping a close eye on one of their own as one of the top prospects in the country takes center stage. Fans who want to see the action up close can buy tickets directly through the East-West Shrine Bowl.
