Chris Bracy Transfer Buzz: Iowa Eyes Memphis DB as Entringer Replacement
Iowa football’s offseason plans have taken a sharp turn, and Chris Bracy transfer buzz is quickly heating up in Hawkeye circles. With longtime defensive captain Koen Entringer entering the transfer portal, Iowa is wasting no time identifying a proven replacement and a productive defensive back from Memphis has emerged as a name to watch.
The Hawkeyes’ approach has been straightforward and aggressive. Defense has always been the backbone of Kirk Ferentz’s program, and this portal window is no different. Iowa isn’t just adding bodies; it’s targeting impact players who can contribute immediately and maintain the program’s defensive identity.
Chris Bracy transfer fits Iowa’s defensive blueprint
Through the first five days of the transfer portal window, Iowa has already secured five commitments, three of them on defense. Defensive back Anthony Hawkins (Villanova), defensive tackle Brice Stevenson (Holy Cross), and edge rusher Kahmari Brown (Elon) are all headed to Iowa City, reinforcing key areas of need.
Still, Entringer’s potential departure leaves a noticeable hole in the secondary. He wasn’t just a starter he was a permanent captain and emotional leader. Replacing that level of production and presence isn’t easy, but Chris Bracy might check more boxes than most available options.
According to JPG Visuals, Bracy has already identified Iowa as one of the programs that has stood out early in his recruitment. That alone has sparked excitement among Hawkeye fans who know how selective Iowa typically is when it comes to defensive backs.
Bracy was a cornerstone of Memphis’ secondary during the 2025 season. The sophomore defensive back put together an impressive stat line: 81 total tackles (48 solo, 33 assisted), nine passes defended, one interception, and one forced fumble. Those numbers don’t just jump off the page they reflect a player who’s constantly around the football.
Why Bracy makes sense as Entringer’s replacement
Memphis finished the 2025 season with an 8–5 overall record and went 4–4 in the American Athletic Conference. While the Tigers closed the year with a disappointing 31–7 loss to NC State in the Gasparilla Bowl, their defense quietly held its own on a national level.
The Tigers ranked No. 60 overall in total defense across all of college football. They were particularly strong against the run, finishing No. 42 nationally, while their pass defense checked in at tied for No. 84. In that system, Bracy played a critical role as both a tackler and a play disruptor.
Statistically, Bracy stood out even among his teammates. He ranked third on the team in total tackles, led the defense outright in passes defended, and tied for second with one interception. That combination of production speaks to both consistency and versatility traits Iowa’s defense values highly.
When you line up Bracy’s numbers next to Entringer’s, the comparison gets even more interesting. Entringer finished last season with 73 total tackles, four passes defended, and no interceptions. Bracy, despite being a class younger, was slightly more productive across the board.
Youth, upside, and system fit
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Chris Bracy transfer discussion is his age and eligibility. As a sophomore, Bracy offers multiple years of remaining eligibility, giving Iowa not just a short-term fix, but a potential long-term solution in the secondary.
That matters in a program built on development and continuity. Iowa has a long history of turning underrated defensive backs into NFL-caliber players, and Bracy’s physicality, ball skills, and tackling ability seem tailor-made for that system.
Beyond the stats, Bracy plays with an edge. He’s active in run support, isn’t afraid to stick his nose into traffic, and consistently challenges receivers at the point of the catch. Those are traits that resonate deeply in Iowa City.
Nothing is official yet, but the interest is real and mutual. If Iowa is serious about maintaining its defensive standard after Entringer’s exit, Bracy should be near the top of the board.
As the portal window continues to unfold, keep an eye on this one. The Chris Bracy transfer could end up being one of the most important defensive moves of Iowa’s offseason.
