Karson Sharar, an Iowa linebacker, formally accepts an invitation to the East-West Shrine Bowl and joins the Hawkeyes trio traveling to the postseason All-Star Games. Iowa City, Iowa Senior linebacker Karson Sharar has formally accepted his invitation to participate in the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl, the renowned college football all-star game that honors talent from across the nation while supporting the Shriners Children’s nonprofit, which is a proud moment for both him and the Hawkeye program. The Shrine Bowl’s official social media accounts made the announcement on Friday, confirming what many Hawkeyes fans had been looking forward to.
The East-West Shrine Bowl tagged the Hawkeye defensive standout and wrote, “Invitation accepted!” on X (formerly Twitter), marking a significant turning point in his college career. Sharar will wear Iowa black and gold once more in the national spotlight before possibly advancing to the next level, so it’s a big step for him.
One of college football’s oldest all-star events, the East-West Shrine Bowl brings together elite seniors from both large and small schools to compete, perform, and impress NFL scouts and executives. It’s more than just another postseason game. Beyond the competition on the field, the event raises vital funds and awareness for the nonprofit Shriners Children’s Healthcare System, which offers pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s financial situation.
Sharar views the invitation as the pinnacle of a season that progressively changed him from a promising player to a key member of Iowa’s defense. He is a 6-foot-2, 235-pound native of Cedar Rapids who spent years working behind the scenes before becoming a reliable, steady linebacker this fall. His journey has been one of tenacity and development, from special teams mainstay to the focal point of the Hawkeye front seven.
Reflecting on the Road to Shrine Bowl Selection
By all accounts, Sharar’s senior year was a breakthrough. After a dominant performance against Michigan State in the Hawkeyes’ home finale, where he recorded 10 total tackles with three for loss, he finished strong and was named to the all-Big Ten. When assessing postseason talent, scouts and coaches specifically look for that kind of impact in pivotal moments.
In frank comments to The Daily Iowan, Sharar reflected on his season and acknowledged that he started it feeling nervous and uncertain. “I was really anxious to start the year,” he remarked. All I was afraid of was making mistakes. However, I continued to gain confidence by having faith in myself, taking lessons from mistakes, and making weekly adjustments.
That level of self-awareness is indicative of his development, and Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz saw it. After that Michigan State game, Ferentz remarked, “He’s always been a talented guy, but now he’s developing the right focus.” He’s playing with assurance. It’s entertaining to watch him play. Ferentz, who is renowned for producing tough, NFL-ready defenders, has witnessed many Hawkeyes achieve success after graduation. Even so, Sharar’s development this year is noteworthy—not just for the numbers, but also for the constant perseverance and hard work he demonstrates every single week.
Hawkeye Representation Continues to Grow in Postseason Showcases
There are other Hawkeyes on their way to a postseason all-star game besides Sharar. Iowa will have three representatives in the Shrine Bowl on January 27, 2026, with defensive end Max Llewellyn and wide receiver/kick returner Kaden Wetjen joining him.
Other Hawkeyes are participating in various all-star events: defensive back Xavier Nwankpa will play in the 2026 Hula Bowl, while kicker Drew Stevens and offensive lineman Beau Stephens accepted invitations to the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl.
These choices highlight Coach Ferentz’s most recent team’s depth and talent. Hawkeyes are receiving recognition on national stages for their hard work in special teams, the trenches, and skill positions.
Shrine Bowl’s Legacy and What It Means For Players
There is more to the East-West Shrine Bowl than a single game. Numerous college athletes have demonstrated their skills in front of NFL talent evaluators and prepared for professional careers at this event, which has a nearly 100-year history. Future prospects like Sharar can draw inspiration from the alumni, who include legendary players who used the game as a launching pad into NFL opportunities.
Sharar views the invitation as the pinnacle of a season that progressively changed him from a promising player to a key member of Iowa’s defense. He is a 6-foot-2, 235-pound native of Cedar Rapids who spent years working behind the scenes before becoming a reliable, steady linebacker this fall. His journey has been one of tenacity and development, from special teams mainstay to the focal point of the Hawkeye front seven.
That is a significant aspect of the experience for Iowa’s senior leader. It serves as a reminder that, despite being fierce and competitive, football can also provide opportunities to meaningfully uplift others.
Looking Ahead
The Hawkeyes fan base will be closely watching Sharar as he gets ready for Shrine Bowl practices and events in late January. For many, it’s an opportunity to see one of their own compete nationally and put themselves to the test against the top graduates. For Sharar, it’s just another phase in a journey that started long before Iowa City and is characterized by diligence, consistent progress, and a love of the game. One thing is certain: Karson Sharar’s acceptance of the East-West Shrine Bowl invitation is a well-earned milestone in a Hawkeye career that has been anything but typical, regardless of whether this opportunity leads directly to the NFL or merely offers new connections and exposure.
