Few programs were able to match Iowa football’s long-standing national reputation. The Hawkeyes earned the moniker “Tight End U” in college football circles and NFL scouting rooms due to their steady progress and strong pipeline to the professional ranks. These days, that identity seems ready for a significant boost in the coming years.
Iowa’s tight end resume is self-explanatory. Some of the NFL’s most successful and well-known tight ends, such as George Kittle and Sam LaPorta, who have both become top weapons at the next level, were produced by the program. Their accomplishments strengthened the perception that tight ends could flourish on the Hawkeyes and added to the position’s mystique in Iowa City.
They are by no means alone. Now a member of the Minnesota Vikings, T.J. Hockenson has made a name for himself as one of the best tight ends in the league. Alongside fellow former Hawkeye Erik All, Noah Fant continues his NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Luke Lachey, who is presently with the Houston Texans, has also made it to the league. Dallas Clark, one of the first notable graduates of the program, laid the groundwork long before they did. The list is endless, spanning generations and upholding a custom that few schools can match.
However, without ongoing support, reputations are short-lived. Iowa’s hold on the moniker “Tight End U” has somewhat relaxed over the last few seasons. The Hawkeyes have found it more difficult to sustain the same level of national output at the position due to injuries, roster changes, and the normal ebb and flow of roster cycles. The goal of the current tight end room is to alter that perception. The task of reestablishing the program’s identity has been taken on by players like DJ Vonnahme, Zach Ortwerth, and Addison Ostrenga. Although each contributes a unique set of skills, the common objective is to restore Iowa’s position as the top tight end development program in college football.
Help is on the way — and it’s coming from familiar territory.
Jaxx DeJean, a standout from OABCIG High School, declared his commitment to the Hawkeyes on December 22, 2025, making him a member of Iowa’s 2027 recruiting class. His choice immediately attracted attention due to his name as well as his talent. As the youngest brother of former Hawkeye and current Philadelphia Eagles star Cooper DeJean, Jaxx adds a new chapter to a family that is already very close to the program.
One of the best in-state prospects in the 2027 class, Jaxx DeJean is particularly intriguing due to his versatility. Last season, DeJean, a true multi-sport athlete, lined up all over the field for the OABCIG Falcons. He played tight end, made plays at wide receiver, took snaps at quarterback, and even helped in the defensive backfield. Particularly in Iowa’s system, where tight ends are expected to block, catch, and comprehend the game from several perspectives, that kind of adaptability is uncommon and highly prized.
He appeared early. DeJean made an impressive debut on the football scene as a freshman, amassing 500 receiving yards, 128 rushing yards, and 12 end zone touchdowns. His athletic profile and those numbers immediately made him a target for recruiters. Recruiting agencies have noticed. DeJean is currently ranked as Iowa’s No. 3 overall recruit in the 2027 class and a four-star prospect by Rivals. In that cycle, he is also ranked as the 19th best tight end in the country. He is ranked No. 288 overall among all prospects in the 2027 class by Rivals Industry, highlighting his status as a talent with national relevance.
DeJean emerges as one of the key players in Iowa’s 2027 recruiting class. The Hawkeyes now have three early commitments from within the state thanks to him, Gavin Stecker, and Braylon Bingham. Iowa’s recruiting strategy has always been centered on securing local talent, and this trio is a solid beginning.
DeJean’s dedication sends a strong statement even though he won’t be in Iowa City for a few years. At tight end, Iowa is actively investing in its future rather than only relying on its past. The route back to full “Tight End U” status is becoming clearer thanks to shown development, NFL success stories, and the arrival of a new generation of talent. It’s a familiar feeling for Hawkeye supporters. The custom is still in place. It’s just reloading, and the next chapter might already be in progress.
